The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & CEO of Octain, Clare Price. Claire Price brought her extensive background as an analyst and research director for Gartner, greatly influencing her marketing approach. She passionately spoke about the necessity of a systematic approach to marketing, especially for small business owners who often face significant challenges in this area. One of Claire's most impactful points was about the value of building long-term relationships. She explained how these relationships could significantly impact business success, emphasizing that marketing is not just about transactions but about creating lasting connections with customers. Claire introduced listeners to Octain, which she described as the first true marketing operating system designed specifically for small businesses. Octane aims to replace inefficient trial-and error-marketing with a sustainable, systematic approach. Claire outlined how Octane provides a turnkey system encompassing strategy, smart execution, and automation, all crucial for supporting small businesses in their marketing endeavors. She also shed light on the role of growth architects, who are instrumental in implementing the Octane system. These architects work closely with businesses to ensure the marketing operating system is tailored to their needs and goals. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of systematic approach to marketing for small and medium-sized businesses Challenges faced by small business owners in marketing Value of building long-term relationships for business success Introduction of Octain as a marketing operating system for small businesses Turnkey system of sustainable marketing operations provided by Octane Role of growth architects in implementing the Octain system The target audience for leveraging the Octain operating system Overview of the book "Smart Marketing Execution" and its resources for small business owners Emphasis on effective execution and integrating automation systems in marketing About Clare Price: Clare Price, CEO of Octain Growth Systems in Raleigh, NC, specializes in scalable growth and is a luminary in B2B marketing strategies. Her expertise is distilled in her book, "Smart Marketing Execution," guiding businesses from haphazard marketing to sustainable, profit-boosting operations. Previously, Clare honed her skills as a Research Director at Gartner's Internet Strategies Service and Vice President of Research at Demand Metric. A prolific writer, she's authored five marketing playbooks, a remote work guide, and the cyberthriller "Web of Betrayal." Clare is a sought-after speaker, engaging with organizations like the American Marketing Association and Women in Technology International. Beyond her professional endeavors, Clare is an amateur ornithologist and adores her Shetland sheepdogs, Toby and Ashton. About Octain: Octain Growth System revolutionizes business growth through its integrated marketing operating system, combining strategy, smart execution, and automation. It starts by crafting strategic blueprints in six key areas: brand positioning, customer acquisition, message clarity, market expansion, sales enablement, and product innovation. Using a proprietary decision framework, Octain develops a roadmap for smart execution, aligning actions with goals. The final step involves automating marketing and sales activities, ensuring sustainable boosts in performance and productivity. The outcome is a transformative shift from erratic, inefficient marketing to a sustainable, operationally efficient approach, leading to significant business growth. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Octain website at https://octaingrowth.com/ Check out Octain on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/octain/ Check out Clare Price on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/clareprice/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Coach & Speaker of Lucky Hunter, Tatiana Melnichuk. Lucky Hunter has carved out a niche in the global market as an international recruitment agency with a laser focus on IT staffing. With over six years of experience and main offices in London and Dubai, they've established themselves as a key player in connecting top IT talent with companies worldwide. Tatiana Melnichuk, the driving force behind Lucky Hunter, shared that their approach is client-centric, tailoring their services to meet the unique needs of companies rather than individual candidates. One of the core principles that Tatiana emphasized was the importance of understanding clients' specific requirements. In the ever-evolving IT landscape, flexibility is paramount. Lucky Hunter prides itself on adapting its recruitment process to align with the dynamic demands of the industry, ensuring that the right talent is matched with the right opportunity. Tatiana noted the ongoing tug-of-war between candidates' desire for flexibility and companies' need for collaboration. She predicts that a hybrid work model may emerge as the solution, balancing the benefits of remote work with the collaborative spirit of traditional office settings. Delving deeper into the recruitment process, Tatiana underscored the necessity of effective communication and partnership with clients. It's a balancing act where understanding the aspirations of candidates and companies' vision is crucial for successful placements. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Lucky Hunter, an international recruitment agency specializing in IT staffing Challenges in the recruitment industry Demand for IT staffing and the growth of the market Working with clients and understanding their specific requirements Impact of remote work on staffing and the potential for a hybrid model Geographical reach of Lucky Hunter's clients and their global market presence Insights into the recruitment process and the importance of effective communication Diverse client base, with a significant portion based in the US Commitment to delivering high-quality service and building strong relationships with clients About Tatiana Melnichuk: Tatiana Melnichuk is a highly skilled IT recruitment specialist, boasting over a decade of rich experience in the field. Her journey is marked by significant collaborations with international startups and esteemed IT companies, highlighting her expertise in navigating the dynamic landscape of tech talent acquisition. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Lucky Hunter in 2017, where she excels as the CEO. Before founding her company, Melnichuk honed her skills as an HR Business Partner, contributing to the growth of startups in the UK, Denmark, and the USA. Her role involved strategic HR management, aligning talent acquisition with business goals, a skill she undoubtedly carried into her current venture. At Lucky Hunter, Melnichuk has created a notable presence, gaining global recognition. Her leadership and deep understanding of the tech recruitment world continue to drive the company's success, making it a go-to partner for companies seeking the best IT talent. Melnichuk's journey is a testament to her dedication and prowess in the IT recruitment sector. About Lucky Hunter: Lucky Hunter is a distinguished international IT recruitment agency, known for its extensive 13-year experience in global recruiting. Specializing in building successful IT teams, the agency has significantly impacted companies worldwide. The team at Lucky Hunter is not just about filling positions; they prioritize selective recruitment. They invest time to deeply understand their clients' specific needs and goals. This meticulous approach ensures that only the most relevant candidates are presented, leading to a remarkably low replacement rate and reinforcing their reputation for excellence in the industry. Speed and efficiency are hallmarks of Lucky Hunter's service. Remarkably, they can present the first candidates to clients within four workdays. Additionally, they offer a unique safety net: free candidate replacements if they leave before the end of their probationary period. Startups find Lucky Hunter particularly appealing due to attractive discounts tailored for them. With offices in key locations like Dubai, London, Yerevan, and Astana, Lucky Hunter is well-positioned to cater to IT staffing needs globally. They bridge language barriers and geographical boundaries, ensuring the perfect IT professional match for any team. Their innovative use of a neuroscientific approach further enhances their ability to identify the ideal specialist for each organization. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Lucky Hunter website at https://luckyhunter.co.uk/ Check out Lucky Hunter on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Author and Marketing Technology Trailblazer of Modern Revenue Strategies, Mark Osborne. Mark Osborne is a seasoned expert who has worked with CEOs, founders, and sales leaders in early-stage B2B firms. His focus is on helping these companies build systems for generating revenue. This includes attracting the right prospects, accelerating deals through the sales pipeline, and activating existing clients for renewals, upsells, referrals, and testimonials. One of the key points Mark emphasized during our conversation was the importance of understanding the ideal customer and their buying journey. Mark believes many companies must take the time to truly understand their customers and context, leading to ineffective marketing strategies and wasted ad spending. Mark suggests a differentiated positioning strategy is crucial for creating awareness and generating demand at the top of the funnel. He advises relying on advertising or content with a clear differentiation from competitors. Mark's approach to working with clients starts with a diagnostic to identify strengths and weaknesses in their revenue systems. He can create a 90-day plan to accelerate growth by diagnosing the areas of opportunity. Mark highlighted that his clients often experience a doubling of leads within the first 90 days and offer a 10x ROI guarantee within six months. Mark emphasized the need to focus on the ideal customer profile and craft messaging that resonates with them rather than trying to be a perfect fit for everyone. By attracting the right prospects, businesses can move faster through the sales pipeline and achieve more renewals, upsells, and referrals, ultimately dominating the marketplace. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of understanding the ideal customer and their buying journey Creating a differentiated positioning strategy Challenges of lead generation Need for a holistic view of the customer journey The changing landscape of B2B marketing accelerated by the pandemic Importance of patience and empathy in understanding the customer's experience The trend of buyers wanting to distance themselves from vendors The importance of focusing on the ideal customer profile and crafting resonating messaging Mark's approach to working with clients, including a diagnostic and 90-day plan About Mark Osborne: Mark Osborne, recognized as a "Marketing Technology Trailblazer" by AdAge Magazine in 2017, boasts extensive experience crafting Revenue Systems for SaaS, Technology, and B2B Services firms. Mark's expertise lies in integrating Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success strategies, particularly for organizations navigating complex sales cycles and intricate buying committees to secure substantial contracts. A seasoned communicator and team leader, Mark excels in researching markets, competitive positioning, and executing creative Go-To-Market strategies. His proficiency extends to Demand Generation, Lead Generation, and Revenue Growth through Account-Based Marketing, Sales, and Customer Advocacy programs. Mark's accessible insights cater to C-Suite, Marketing, and Sales Leaders adapting to the evolving B2B landscape. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys sport fishing, indulging in Tiki drinks, and catching the latest movies with his wife. About Modern Revenue Strategies: Modern Revenue Strategies offers CEOs and Sales Leaders of early-stage SaaS, Tech, and B2B Services firms a sanity-saving approach to business growth. Unlike traditional tactics and fleeting growth hacks, the focus is on proven marketing strategy, delivering predictable growth and often doubling revenue and pipeline within three months. The system emphasizes scalable processes over ad spending and growth-chasing, with many clients experiencing a remarkable 10X Return on Investment. The B2B Growth Systems provided by Modern Revenue Strategies liberate businesses from financial uncertainties and campaign prioritization struggles, allowing leaders to concentrate on customer service and product development. Their #1 Best Selling B2B Marketing Book on Amazon unveils a Proven 5-step Growth Framework, addressing key aspects like attracting the right prospects, accelerating deal pipelines, and activating renewals, upsells, and referrals. Offering a cost-effective alternative to hiring a full-time marketing executive, Modern Revenue Strategies is designed to guide companies through the $1M to $20M ARR growth phase, delivering top-notch solutions for marketing leadership and propelling them to the next stage of success. Tweetable Moments: 12:40 - “ What happens is when you don't have systems in place to attract the right prospects and then work them through the process, you wind up with sort of the leftovers in the marketplace.” 14:20 - “The default of the lazy marketer or the lazy PR person is just spray and pray.” 16:26 - “You're better than your competitors yet just talk about why y

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Executive Coach & Speaker, Dan Gordon. A fascinating concept that Coach Dan introduced was the idea of a "qualified no." This is when a prospect declines your offer with a valid reason that keeps the door open for future engagement. It's not the end of the conversation; it's an invitation to stay connected and revisit the opportunity when the time is right. The importance of maintaining a connection with prospects, even after a "no," cannot be overstated. Coach Dan advised that we should always leave the lines of communication open. This means following up, providing additional value, and showing that you're still interested in their success, regardless of whether they've made a purchase. One of the critical takeaways Coach Dan shared is the importance of empathy in sales. He stressed that to connect with our prospects truly, we must first understand their fears and hesitations. It's not just about pushing a product or service; it's about listening to their concerns and addressing them head-on. Coach Dan also highlighted the significance of relentless service. In a world where everyone is selling something, the differentiator is often how much you're willing to go above and beyond for your clients. This means not only meeting their expectations but exceeding them whenever possible. Key Points from the Episode: Authentic selling and building connections with potential clients Understanding and addressing the fears and hesitations of prospects The value of relentless service and asking The concept of a "qualified no" The importance of staying connected with prospects About Dan Gordon: Dan Gordon, an executive coach and speaker, has carved a niche in empowering entrepreneurs to harness their inherent 'superpowers.' He believes everyone has unique abilities, often unrecognized, that can drive remarkable success. His approach revolves around the concept that entrepreneurs naturally confront challenges and fears others shy away from, demonstrating a rare courage and resilience. Gordon has dedicated himself to guiding thousands of entrepreneurs for over twenty years. His coaching focuses on amplifying these inherent strengths, enabling individuals to realize and utilize their full potential. His methods are tailored to help entrepreneurs achieve success more rapidly and effectively than they might. Gordon's philosophy centers on the idea that entrepreneurial courage and the willingness to face potential failure are skills and unique qualities that set individuals apart. By fostering these traits, he aids his clients in recognizing their unique abilities and leveraging them for more significant personal and professional achievements. Tweetable Moments: 04:20 - "Nobody wants to buy a fire extinguisher when everything's fine. You always want the thing when you need it the least." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC website at https://dangordonenterprise.com/coaching/ Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/dangordonenterprise/ Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on Instagram at www.twitter.com/DG_Enterprise Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DG_Enterprise Check out Dan Gordon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachdangordon/ Check out Dan Gordon on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ElderLawGeorgia Check out Dan Gordon on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dangordon99 More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Owner of Quid Pro Quo, Victoria Collier. Victoria Collier brings a wealth of knowledge to the table with her expertise in guiding lawyers through the sale of their practices. Her approach is about finding a buyer and ensuring that law firm owners can find their life after the law. This involves a comprehensive strategy that includes positioning the firm for sale and acting as a broker to connect with the right buyer. One of the key topics we discussed was how small law firm owners could prepare their firms to be attractive acquisition targets. Victoria stressed the importance of shifting one's mindset from being a practitioner to embracing the role of a business owner. This shift is crucial in building assets within the firm that go beyond revenue generation. A predictable income and robust production systems are vital in demonstrating the firm's stability and potential for growth. Operational procedures and transparent workflows add to the firm's value, showcasing a well-organized and efficient practice that a buyer could easily integrate into their existing operations. Victoria talked through the engagement process with Quid Pro Quo Law, which begins with assessing the emotional readiness of the seller and obtaining a valuation of the business. The acquisition process involves due diligence and navigating the emotional challenges sellers may face during the transition. Key Points from the Episode: Reasons for acquiring existing law firms Steps for making law firms attractive for acquisition Sales process for law firms Post-sale transition period for sellers Benefits for buyers in acquiring existing law firms Growth through acquisition strategy for larger law firms Criteria for potential acquisitions Shift in mindset for small law firm owners Importance of building assets within the firm Post-sale period and personalized roles for sellers About Victoria Collier: Victoria Collier is a multifaceted legal and business professional who transitioned seamlessly from her Air Force paralegal role to founding her own law firm. With her unique background, she specialized in Elder Law Estate Planning, distinguishing herself as a pioneer in educating elder law attorneys nationwide about Veterans Benefits for Seniors. Her expertise extended beyond legal practice to business coaching, where she co-owned a successful company, guiding other attorneys in growing their practices Under her leadership for 18 years, her law firm consistently generated impressive revenues, reaching $1-1.5 million annually over five consecutive years. In 2020, she made the strategic move to sell her firm. Beyond law, Victoria's entrepreneurial spirit has led her to co-own another high-performing business focused on assisting Veterans. She also runs a consulting firm and has previously ventured into insurance, publishing, and real estate. Victoria Collier's career reflects a blend of legal acumen, business savvy, and a dedicated commitment to supporting veterans and the elderly. About Quid Pro Quo: Quid pro quo, a Latin term meaning "something for something," refers to a mutual exchange where one thing is given or done in return for another. In legal and business contexts, it often implies an exchange of goods, services, or favors, where each party expects to give and receive something of value. This concept is crucial in contract law, where agreements are based on the understanding that each party will fulfill their part of the deal. However, quid pro quo can also have negative connotations, especially when the exchange is unethical or illegal. For instance, in the workplace, it might refer to situations where job benefits (like promotions or raises) are contingent upon employees providing personal favors, which can lead to accusations of harassment or corruption. Quid pro quo can describe negotiations where support or concessions are exchanged for specific actions or policies in political and diplomatic arenas. It's a fundamental principle in international relations, where countries often engage in reciprocal dealings to advance their interests. Tweetable Moments: 05:29 - "What buyers want to buy is predictability. So, whatever systems you can have to make sure that there's predictability in income, that would be number one." 07:59 - "The due diligence process can be the hardest emotional part through the entire journey. It can be stressful, and that's why having an advisor to go through that can be helpful." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Quid Pro Quo website at https://quidproquolaw.com/ Check out Quid Pro Quo on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoria-collier-coaching/ Check out Quid Pro Quo on Instagram at https://instagram.com/victorywalkcoaching?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Check out Quid Pro Quo on Facebook at ht

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Principal, Business Intermediary & Broker of The Magnolia Firm, Christine McDanell. Christine McDanell is not just an expert in her field; she's a guiding light for those navigating the often turbulent waters of M&A. As the principal and founder of The Magnolia Firm, she brings a unique perspective, one that's been honed by years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of market trends. One of the critical insights Christine shared was her take on the current market trends within the tech industry. The landscape constantly evolves, and staying abreast of these changes is crucial for anyone looking to maximize their business's value. Christine's expertise allows her to forecast these trends and advise her clients accordingly, ensuring they're always a step ahead. Financing plays a pivotal role in the M&A process, and Christine shed light on the various lending options available to businesses. She emphasized the importance of understanding these options to secure the best possible outcome in a transaction. Moreover, Christine provided strategies for maximizing business valuation, a critical aspect for any seller aiming to get the most out of their exit. The role of a broker cannot be overstated in the world of M&A. Christine discussed how a broker can facilitate the process, acting as a mediator between buyers and sellers. She highlighted the benefits of having a broker on your side, from their ability to negotiate better terms to their expertise in closing deals efficiently. Christine also mentioned her upcoming book, "Get Acquired," which is an essential read for anyone considering selling their business. The book aims to provide practical guidance, demystifying the process and offering actionable steps to prepare for a successful sale. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Christine McDanell , M&A consultant and founder of The Magnolia Firm Expertise in mergers and acquisitions, particularly in the tech industry Insights into current market trends and lending options Strategies for maximizing business valuation Role of a broker in the M&A process Tips for sellers and buyers in navigating the transaction Mention of upcoming book "Get Acquired" for practical guidance on selling a business About Christine McDanell: Christine McDanell is the enterprising Founder & Principal Business Intermediary of The Magnolia Firm, a brokerage specializing in M&A for digital businesses. With a knack for orchestrating seamless exits, her firm ensures entrepreneurs don't compromise their values while achieving their desired outcomes. TMF boasts a 100% success rate in exits, often securing deals at or above the asking price. Christine's entrepreneurial journey is marked by her success in founding, growing, acquiring, and selling over 20 businesses across diverse sectors like cleaning, wellness, beauty, technology, exotic cars, and real estate. This vast experience led her to discover a formula for perfect business sales, which she now imparts to others. Her career highlights include creating 200+ jobs since 2003, and a memorable breakfast with Richard Branson in 2017, recognizing her contributions to the Virgin Unite Foundation. She's earned accolades such as the SBA Business Person of the Year (2009) and a spot in Entrepreneur Magazine's 100 Most Brilliant Companies for Cleanology (2010). Away from work, Christine enjoys live music festivals, spontaneous global travels, attending Burning Man, and captaining boats in San Diego Bay. About The Magnolia Firm: The Magnolia Firm (TMF) stands out in the M&A brokerage landscape, focusing on transactions for small and medium-sized digital businesses (SMBs). What sets TMF apart is their commitment to exceeding expectations in both experience and results. They aim for a win-win scenario, ensuring that all parties in a transaction are more than satisfied. TMF's unique edge lies in its team composition. Unlike typical brokers, TMF's intermediaries are seasoned entrepreneurs. This entrepreneurial background is crucial. It means they have firsthand experience in owning and running businesses, giving them an unparalleled understanding of their clients' perspectives and needs. This experience allows them to deeply empathize with business owners, aligning closely with their interests and expectations. By leveraging their personal business experiences, TMF intermediaries can navigate the complexities of digital SMB transactions more effectively, ensuring a more tailored and satisfying experience for all involved. This approach has helped TMF carve out a distinct niche in the competitive world of M&A brokerage. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Magnolia Firm website at https://www.vanderbloemen.com/ Check out The Magnolia Firm on L

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group, William Vanderbloemen. William's journey is a testament to the power of diverse experiences. His transition from being a pastor to working for a Fortune 200 company equipped him with a unique perspective that ultimately led to the creation of his search firm. Vanderbloemen Search Group is a beacon for churches, nonprofits, schools, and values-based businesses in their quest to find exceptional talent. William's firm is built on the premise that the best candidates reveal themselves within the first five minutes of an interaction, a principle guiding his approach to identifying standout individuals. William shed light on the 12 data-driven habits that are the cornerstone of his book. These habits are not just theoretical concepts; they are actionable practices backed by data and proven to elevate individuals above the rest. These habits' simplicity yet the profound impact can transform how leaders operate, and businesses succeed. William underscored the significance of responding quickly in today's fast-paced world. He shared compelling examples and statistics illustrating how a prompt and intentional reply can forge stronger relationships and set you apart in a saturated market. While simple to adopt, this habit can be a game-changer for anyone looking to make a mark. William generously invited leaders and professionals to take advantage of the over 4000 free resources on the Vanderbloemen website. These resources are designed to assist with team building, leadership development, and the nuances of running a values-based business. For those in leadership roles seeking the best team talent, William's invitation is a call to action to elevate their hiring process. Key Points from the Episode: William Vanderbloemen's career and establishment of Vanderbloemen Search Group Inspiration behind the book "Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best from the Rest" Quick identification of standout individuals in initial meetings. Responsiveness as a key to relationship-building and market differentiation. Application of these habits in leadership and customer service roles. William's website provides 4000+ free resources on team and leadership development. About William Vanderbloemen: William Vanderbloemen is a notable figure in executive search and team consulting. He founded Vanderbloemen Search Group 15 years ago, a firm specializing in identifying top talent for various teams, managing succession plans, and offering consultation on team-related matters. This year marks a significant milestone for the firm, completing their 3,000th executive search. Before establishing his company, Vanderbloemen gained valuable insights into executive search methodologies under the guidance of a mentor with over 25 years of experience in high-level executive search. This mentorship exposed him to the best corporate practices and strategies, particularly those utilized by the globally recognized firm Russell Reynolds. Additionally, Vanderbloemen has a background in religious leadership. He previously served as a Senior Pastor at one of the largest Presbyterian Churches in the USA, adding a unique dimension to his professional profile. This combination of religious leadership and expertise in executive search and team management makes William Vanderbloemen a distinguished professional. About Vanderbloemen Search Group: Vanderbloemen Search Group is a distinctive organization serving various values-based entities, including Churches, Schools, Nonprofits, Family Offices, and Businesses aligned with specific values. They specialize in various services such as hiring, compensation analysis, succession planning, and enhancing organisational diversity. Founded on the principle that their mission is driven by the missions of the organizations they serve, Vanderbloemen began as a concept at the founder's dining room table. It has since evolved into a robust company with a team of 40 people. This growth reflects their commitment to providing tailored people solutions to teams with a greater purpose. Operating on a global scale, Vanderbloemen Search Group prides itself on aligning its services with the specific needs of its clients. This approach ensures that the solutions they offer are effective and resonate deeply with the core values and objectives of the organizations they assist. Their focus on mission-driven solutions has established Vanderbloemen as a key player in supporting organizations with a higher purpose. Tweetable Moments: 02:56 - "Churches move so slowly, and I thought, well, this is kind of silly. I wonder if we could build something like what the business world has for churches to find their pastor." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Vanderbloemen Search

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Nacre Consulting, Jason Pearl. The name "Nacre Consulting" is derived from the organic compound that forms a pearl, a fitting metaphor for the transformative work Jason and his team do with businesses. Nacre Consulting is dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses scale faster through comprehensive sales, marketing, and leadership programs. Jason's journey in business and leadership is inspiring. Having been a sales leader for most of his life, he understands the importance of aligning one's leadership style with the desired results. He advocates for a leadership approach that fosters respect, supports team success, and takes decisive action to achieve results. When it comes to leadership trends, Jason identifies the avoidance of healthy conflict as a significant issue. He encourages leaders to address issues early on to prevent them from escalating. In an era dominated by social media, Jason advises leaders to drown out the noise and focus on what they can control. Jason emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and being a leader's best version of oneself. His faith and values inform his approach to business and leadership. He firmly believes that success is a personal choice that individuals make every day, and that everyone has the potential to win. Nacre Consulting started as a solopreneur venture but has since grown into a small team of highly educated consultants with experience in the private sector. They aim to provide accessible options for businesses to work with them, starting with smaller projects and gradually expanding the partnership. Their goal is to change the business landscape for growth and offer services such as growth assessments, business model consulting, and holistic evaluations of sales, marketing, and production teams. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jason Pearl, founder and CEO of Nacre Consulting Origin of the name "Nacre Consulting" and its focus on helping small and medium-sized businesses scale faster Jason's background in business and leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself as a leader Trends in leadership, including the avoidance of healthy conflict and the negative influence of social media Jason's expertise in leadership development and effective sales, marketing, and leadership strategies Importance of personal accountability and being the best version of oneself as a leader Ideal clients for Nacre Consulting: startups looking to scale, companies experiencing flat or declining revenue, fast-scaling companies lacking talent, strategy, and structure Services offered by Nacre Consulting: growth assessments, business model consulting, holistic evaluations of sales, marketing, and production teams Nacre Consulting's growth from a solopreneur venture to a small team of consultants About Jason Pearl: Jason Pearl is a seasoned business strategist known for his transformative impact on companies' revenue and growth. Over his career, he has played a pivotal role in generating over $500 million in revenue for numerous businesses. As the founder of a growth consulting agency, Jason shifted his focus from individual companies to empowering a broader spectrum of businesses. His mission extends beyond conventional success, emphasizing the importance of uncovering greatness, fostering strong leadership, and building enduring success. Throughout his journey, Jason discovered a profound strength in driving business revenue and understanding, motivating, and leading the people integral to these successful ventures. Rejecting conventional norms in business and life, he is determined to revolutionize approaches to success. With decades of experience, Jason is dedicated to sharing insights on achieving success in business and life, challenging the traditional paradigms and demonstrating that everyone can achieve victory with the right mindset and strategies. About Nacre Consulting: Nacre Consulting is a catalyst for accelerated growth, empowering small to medium-sized businesses with customized sales, marketing, and leadership programs. With a mission to propel businesses forward, Nacre focuses on optimizing the potential within the teams that drive each brand. By tailoring strategies to individual business needs, Nacre aims to facilitate faster and smarter scaling, offering a dynamic approach to navigate the complexities of growth. The consultancy strongly emphasizes unlocking untapped potential within teams, recognizing that the key to endless growth opportunities lies in the collective strength of the people behind the brand. With a commitment to personalized solutions, Nacre Consulting is a strategic partner dedicated to propelling businesses to new heights through effective team engagement and targeted growth initiatives. Tweetable Moments: 6:05 - "I want to be a leader that takes action and gets things done right, gets results rig

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Managing Director & Founder of Five in a Boat Limited, Jules Herd. Jules explained how the role of communication agencies like Five in a Boat has shifted from traditional communications to more of a business consultancy. They help scale-up companies secure funding by advising them on investment and ensuring they have a presence in important publications and platforms like Forbes and TechCrunch. In addition to this, they also assist with reputation management, crisis communication, and product launches. Jules emphasized the importance of being proactive in managing reputation and shared an example of how they helped a client in the gaming industry navigate challenging times. One of the key topics she discussed was the relevance of communication strategy for early-stage businesses. Jules explained that early-stage companies can become thought leaders in their industries by effectively communicating their unique offerings. She suggested that companies should hire an agency like Five in a Boat from the start, but only if their product is ready and they are in the right headspace to utilize communication professionals effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jules Herd, Managing Director of Five in a Boat Overview of Five in a Boat's services as a strategic communications agency Shift from traditional communications to business consultancy Assistance with securing funding, reputation management, crisis communication, and product launches Importance of proactive reputation management and a case study in the gaming industry Relevance of communication strategy for early-stage businesses Recommendation to hire an agency like Five in a Boat from the start Meaning behind the name "Five in a Boat" representing teamwork and collaboration About Jules Herd: Jules Herd, a BA Hons in Public Relations graduate, boasts a 23-year career in communications, notably as the former Global VP of Communications for HTC and Deezer. In 2018, she founded her consultancy, Five in a Boat, after diverse experiences with brands like Microsoft, AMD, Disney, Virgin, Codemasters, and KLM. Passionate about Diversity and Inclusion, Jules advocates for industry equality and addresses fertility issues based on personal experience. A Samaritans contributor, she actively supports families and champions mental health. Beyond Five in a Boat, Jules owns Blind Swan, a globally recognized contemporary gin, co-owns EV Cables, writes for Forbes, and serves as a trustee for charity One in Four. Jules, a married mother of an eight-year-old, balances her professional life with rowing, running, travel, karaoke, and newfound painting skills exhibited on Thortful's website post-lockdown. About Five in a Boat Limited: Five in a Boat is an independent London-based communications consultancy with extensive international experience, specializing in delivering impactful results for brands. Their approach prioritizes clarity in goals, meaningful audience engagement, freedom for innovation, and building effective teams. The consultancy challenges the status quo with an innovative and collaborative mindset, simplifying complexities and striving to understand clients' businesses thoroughly. Founded by a former Global Vice President of Communications for HTC and Deezer, Five in a Boat draws on 18 years of expertise in developing communication strategies for leading brands. The seasoned communications experts team aims to elevate other brands by applying their wealth of experience to push communication strategies to new heights. With a commitment to turning challenges into opportunities, Five in a Boat is dedicated to driving strong brand awareness and engagement for successful business growth. Tweetable Moments: 12:19 - "If it isn't going to deliver something that is absolutely aligned with whatever your core objectives are, it's a pointless exercise. Don't bother." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Five in a Boat Limited website at https://www.fiveinaboat.com/ Check out Five in a Boat Limited on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fiveinaboat/ Check out Five in a Boat Limited on Twitter at https://twitter.com/fiveinaboat Check out Five in a Boat Limited on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fiveinaboat/ Check out Jules Herd on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaherd/ Check out Jules Herd on Twitter at https://twitter.com/julesyherd Check out Jules Herd on Instagram at https://instagram.com/julespinacolada?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcast

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO, Marcy McKenna. Marcy founded the Women Inventors Club to support ambitious women with creative ideas and guide them toward product success. Two statistics that motivated her to help inventors were the low percentage of patents filed by women and the low percentage of inventors who make money with their products. She believes many inventors get stuck in the process due to lacking marketing and product validation. Marcy emphasizes the importance of thinking about marketing from the beginning and validating ideas before investing time and resources. I couldn't agree more with her on this. Execution is key in realizing dreams, and timing and choice are equally significant. Marcy shared her five-step product validation process, which is crucial in determining if a product idea is marketable and profitable. She stressed the need to understand if customers are willing to pay for the product and if the numbers work out. This validation process is valuable in learning about the customer, the competitive landscape, and setting oneself apart in the market. Marcy advised inventors to create initial prototypes at home using readily available materials for proof of concept. She cautioned against hiring expensive prototyping companies immediately, as their results may not align with the inventor's vision. Marcy suggests playing with the prototype and fine-tuning it before considering professional prototyping. She also mentioned using photorealistic 3D renderings to showcase the product's appearance and functionality, which can be helpful in licensing discussions. Key Points from the Episode: Marcy McKenna's work as an inventor and entrepreneur The Women Inventors Club and its mission to support ambitious women with creative ideas Low percentage of patents filed by women and inventors who make money with their products Importance of marketing and product validation in the invention process Marcy's five-step product validation process Creating initial prototypes at home using readily available materials Caution against immediately hiring expensive prototyping companies Use of photorealistic 3D renderings to showcase product appearance and functionality Marcy's work with inventors and her efforts to empower them About Marcy McKenna: Marcy McKenna is a prominent figure in product innovation and entrepreneurship. Renowned as a keynote speaker, she has successfully conceptualized, developed, and launched over 40 products through various channels, including home shopping platforms like QVC and HSN, ecommerce, and major retailers nationwide. Marcy's expertise extends to product development, marketing strategy, and consumer product branding, making her a sought-after consultant in ecommerce and traditional retail. With over 12 years of experience in the Live Shopping space, she is recognized for her proficiency in social media, email marketing, and shoppable video content. Notably, Marcy excels in hosting Live Shopping events on diverse platforms such as Amazon Live, Pinterest TV, YouTube Live, and others, showcasing her versatility and impact in the evolving digital commerce landscape. As an Amazon Influencer and Live Shopping Host, she regularly engages audiences, contributing to the success of numerous brands. Tweetable Moments: 07:51 - "Finding out if your idea has a market and is salable is a critical step that many inventors skip." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Marcy McKenna website at https://www.marcymckenna.com/ Check out Marcy McKenna on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcymckenna/ Check out Marcy McKenna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/marcymckenna Check out Marcy McKenna on Twitter at https://twitter.com/marcymckenna Check out Marcy McKenna on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marcymckenna/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Shiageto Consulting, Faris Aranki. Faris' company, Shiageto Consulting, operates under the metaphor of a sharpening stone, working to hone other companies by enhancing their strategies and effectiveness. They have a patented methodology based on three pillars: improving IQ (Intelligence Quotient), EQ (Emotional Quotient), and FQ (Focus Quotient). Their approach involves aligning team goals, enhancing communication, and eliminating distractions. Faris delved into recognizing when a company needs sharpening and proactively addressing the issues. He says indicators of a dull IQ and EQ include a lack of clarity, limited ideas, and poor communication. He emphasized the need to eliminate distractions and focus on what truly matters. Shiageto Consulting engages with clients through interactive facilitation, challenging biases, and filling team gaps. They also train leaders in soft skills such as influence, storytelling, and relationship-building. Faris started the company four years ago after identifying a gap in strategy implementation. Despite a slow start as result of COVID-19 pandemic, they now work with big clients like Amazon and Heineken and startups. Faris shared that he has worked with big companies like Coca-Cola, Conde Nast, Amazon, and BMW. However, he clarified that they don't only work with enterprise-level companies. The common factor among these companies is his relationships with people within them. Faris believes that people like working with people they know and trust. Even if his company is small, if they have had a positive impact previously, these companies will come back to work with them. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Faris as the founder and CEO of Shiageto Consulting Explanation of the company's metaphor of sharpening stones and how they help improve strategies and effectiveness Discussion of the three pillars of their methodology: improving IQ, EQ, and FQ Importance of recognizing when a company needs sharpening and being proactive in addressing issues Engagement with clients through interactive facilitation, challenging biases, and filling in gaps within teams Training leaders in soft skills such as influence, storytelling, and relationship-building Examples of clients they have worked with, including big companies like Amazon and startups Emphasis on the importance of trust in working with clients Working with a variety of smaller companies in different industries About Faris Aranki: With over two decades of experience catalyzing strategic change in diverse corporate and non-corporate settings, Faris Aranki is a seasoned professional adept at navigating the nuances of strategic success. His extensive career has touched various companies, ranging from global giants to fledgling startups, and spanned multiple countries and industries. Recognizing that achieving organizational goals extends beyond the quality of strategy alone, Faris founded Shiageto Consulting to enhance strategic effectiveness. He emphasizes the critical role of effective engagement and barrier removal in accomplishing objectives. Faris has distilled his expertise in solving complex problems into Shiageto's workshops, courses, and methodologies, offering businesses and individuals a structured approach to overcoming obstacles. With the belief that any team can benefit from these enhancements with the proper support, Faris Aranki and Shiageto Consulting stand as catalysts for transformative change. About Shiageto Consulting: Shiageto Consulting pioneers innovative approaches to enhance business effectiveness and bolster success in a demanding contemporary business landscape. Faced with the daunting pressures of achieving success, businesses often resort to untested strategies, introducing various risks such as delivering the wrong outcomes, encountering delays, or overspending. Shiageto Consulting mitigates these risks by focusing on sharpening Intelligence Quotient (IQ), Emotional Quotient (EQ), and Focus Quotient (FQ). IQ involves refining strategies for clarity, measurability, and resilience through fact-based stress testing. These nuanced improvements serve as hidden levers, significantly enhancing the likelihood of success at a fraction of the cost. Shiageto Consulting's methodology vividly illustrates this concept by likening a team's vision to scaling a mountain, emphasizing the precision required to achieve strategic objectives. Tweetable Moments: 04:03 - "Why wait till the end and have to fix all the problems then? Foresee them and nip them in the bud early." 03:30 - "Complacency can be a major problem." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Shiageto Consulting website at https://www.shiageto.com/ Check out Shiageto Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Coach, Author & Inspirational Speaker of Campbell Company, Josefine Campbell. Josefine has worked with renowned organizations such as Maersk, Novo Nordisk, Deloitte, McDonald's, and KPMG. She coaches individual leaders and groups within these organizations, focusing on challenges, personal growth, and career development. Interestingly, she mentioned that most clients come through recommendations and engage her as an external coach. This is a testament to her expertise and her value to these organizations. Josefine also discussed the challenges and fears that executives and entrepreneurs face. She likened the feeling of being in a high-pressure work environment to walking through a dark forest as a teenager. She shared a personal story of her experience in a martial arts competition, where she doubted her abilities compared to others who had been practicing for much longer. However, she learned that bravery and risk-taking are essential in both entrepreneurship and martial arts. Josefine's new book, "Power Barometer," offers practical strategies for managing personal energy for business success. She emphasizes the need to listen to one's body and control breathing to calm the mind and signal the brain that there is no danger. She also highlights the significance of controlling one's attention and not letting external factors dictate its place. For those interested in learning more, Josefine encourages visiting her website, josephinecampbell.com, where they can find free tools and resources from the book. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Josefine Campbell, executive coach and author Importance of authenticity in leadership and its impact on energy levels Trying new things and changing behavior can initially require more energy Alignment with one's personality is crucial in implementing new approaches Importance of respecting boundaries and its impact on energy levels Josephine's work with organizations and coaching individual leaders and groups Challenges and fears faced by executives and entrepreneurs Importance of being brave and taking risks in entrepreneurship Being aware of surroundings and controlling breathing to calm the mind About Josefine Campbell: Josefine Campbell, a renowned executive coach and the founder of Campbell Co, leads a premier leadership consulting firm catering to multinational corporations. Specializing in inspiring and coaching leaders, teams, and talents, Josefine's clientele includes major entities like McDonald’s, Deloitte, Maersk, Novo Nordisk, and the Carlsberg Group. Drawing from her extensive experience, she employs a practical and pragmatic approach to leadership development. Josefine is a four-time jiu-jitsu champion, reflecting her keen interest in fostering personal leadership in challenging situations commonly encountered in modern work environments. Before venturing into executive coaching, she served as a serial entrepreneur and held a role as an external lecturer at Copenhagen Business School, further enriching her background in leadership and business. About Campbell Company: Focused on addressing clients' specific challenges, the company uniquely emphasizes enhancing personal energy for heightened performance and resilience in demanding scenarios marked by uncertainty, conflicts, or changes. Drawing inspiration from Japanese martial arts, founder Josefine Campbell's early experiences in Jiu-jitsu championships shaped the company's philosophy. Her success in mastering reaction-based disciplines underscores the importance of maintaining composure, quick reflexes, empathy, and rational thinking in high-pressure situations. Tailoring programs to individual companies, Campbell Co ensures customized solutions for diverse professional challenges. By offering new insights and tools, the company empowers leaders, team members, and individuals to thrive in adversity, fostering a holistic personal and professional development approach. Tweetable Moments: 04:37 - "Being in integrity with who I am made a huge difference energy wise." 11:34 - "Entrepreneurs are brave people and that's why we will react sometimes the same way when we are at work as if we were walking through a dark forest." 15:28 - "Rather than letting other signals things happening outside me dictate where I put my attention, I would control my attention myself." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Campbell Company website at https://josefinecampbell.com/ Check out Campbell Company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/campbellcoaching/ Check out Josefine Campbell on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/josefinecampbell/ Check out Josefine Campbell on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/josefine.campbell Check out Josefine Campbell on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jos

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & Lead Consultant of BestFirstNow, Kolby Goodman. Kolby Goodman works with business owners and leaders grappling with building a great team. Kolby steps in to help when they're inundated with too many candidates or need help attracting enough. He assists these leaders in understanding not just the qualifications they need in a candidate but also how the right hire can help solve their most pressing problems. Kolby's approach to helping businesses find the right candidates is comprehensive. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the skills and expertise needed for the role and how they will be applied to solve the company's problems. Colby assists businesses in creating job descriptions and marketing materials that set them apart from other companies in the industry. His process also involves developing a candidate flow that brings in the right number of qualified candidates. Colby advises businesses to contact him if they are experiencing frequent turnover in their team or if their job postings are not attracting the right candidates. He believes settling for the wrong hire can lead to future headaches and heartaches, so he encourages businesses to be strategic in their hiring process. Key Points from the Episode: Building and keeping a great team Kolby Goodman's work as a candidate experience and hiring consultant Struggles faced by business owners and leaders in creating a great team The current hiring environment and predictions for the future Factors employees look for aside from salary Kolby's process for helping businesses find the right candidates Importance of understanding skills and expertise needed for the role Creating job descriptions and marketing materials that set the company apart Screening process and evaluating candidates About Kolby Goodman: Kolby Goodman, the founder of BestFirstNow, a hiring consulting firm, specializes in assisting highly educated owner-operators, such as doctors, dentists, veterinarians, attorneys, CPAs, and architects, in recruiting impactful problem solvers instead of settling for average candidates. With over a decade of experience and having successfully placed over 5,000 high-achieving professionals, Kolby draws from firsthand knowledge to address common interview pitfalls and guide leaders in attracting and retaining top talent. Renowned for his expertise, Kolby has been featured on CBS News, LinkedIn, The Huffington Post, and LA Weekly. He has collaborated with industry giants like Panasonic, Marriott Hotels, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and associations such as the American Diabetes Association and SHRM. Through tailored workshops, Kolby shares insights on optimizing the hiring process, effective leadership, and enhancing employee engagement for various organizations, universities, and schools nationwide. About BestFirstNow: BestFirstNow, led by Kolby Goodman, specializes in alleviating common hiring challenges to ensure a favorable first impression, a seamless candidate experience, and the timely acquisition of top-tier talent. Organizations facing issues like inconsistent candidate experiences or settling for suboptimal professionals can benefit from a comprehensive overhaul. Outdated hiring strategies, exemplified by stagnant job ads and generic interview questions, can be revitalized to foster more meaningful interactions. Lengthy hiring cycles, adversely impacting costs and operational efficiency, can be streamlined for a quicker time-to-hire. Challenges such as low offer acceptance rates and high employee turnover are addressed by ensuring candidates align genuinely with organizational culture and values. The firm's approach fosters brand champions, even among non-selected candidates, who share positive experiences and express immediate interest in future opportunities. The overarching goal is to boost retention by establishing early alignment between candidates, organizational culture, and career progression. Tweetable Moments: 00:06:19 - "They're looking for an interesting challenge. What keeps somebody there is the continual opportunity and drive to solve interesting problems." 12:46 - "If you settle for something, you're ultimately going to have a massive headache and heartache in the future." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out BestFirstNow website at https://www.kolbygoodman.com/consulting Check out Kolby Goodman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolbygoodman/ Check out Kolby Goodman on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wix Check out Kolby Goodman on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TheJobHuntr More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOC

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Principal of Portal CFO, Manny Skevofilax. When asked about the services Manny renders as a fractional CFO, in response, he elucidated that numerous business proprietors initially seek assistance from accountants but often grapple with comprehending profitability and executing data-driven decisions. Manny underscored the significance of grasping fundamental metrics, such as identifying the most lucrative products or services, to advance towards business objectives. Manny's professional scope extends across diverse sectors, encompassing service companies, manufacturers, and contractors. He conveyed that a pivotal aspect of his responsibilities involves scrutinizing financial statements. Each business's financial statement narrates a distinct tale, and the ability to pinpoint areas for enhancement and make informed decisions grounded in financial data is deemed indispensable. When questioned about his interactions with clients and the concept of engaging a fractional CFO, Manny expounded that he initiates by evaluating the client's existing financial information and their capacity to make informed decisions based on said information. He stressed the urgency of timely and accurate financial statements, highlighting the significance of promptly addressing adverse trends. Key Points from the Episode: Manny Skevofilax's work as a fractional CFO Importance of analyzing financial statements and making data-driven decisions Identifying profitable segments in business Making tough decisions about clients Overcoming stagnation in business Manny's experience working with various types of businesses Importance of basic metrics in understanding profitability Manny's blog and valuable content on LinkedIn Manny's approach to providing practical lessons based on his experiences and mentors About Manny Skevofilax: Manny Skevofilax, a dynamic consultant and compelling speaker, breathes vitality into businesses, ensuring holistic success through his venture, Portal CFO. Initially rooted in the restaurant industry, Manny holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and a Master of Science in Finance, leveraging this dual expertise for a seamless transition into the corporate banking realm. His journey crystallized in consultancy, where his wealth of experience became instrumental. Renowned for translating intricate concepts into actionable strategies, Manny stands as the go-to figure for businesses navigating the ever-evolving commercial landscape. With a proven track record, he empowers enterprises to survive and thrive, offering indispensable insights for flourishing in today's dynamic business environment. About Portal CFO: Portal CFO is a guiding beacon for business owners, dedicated to enhancing financial prosperity. Positioned as a trusted navigator, the mission is clear: facilitate a seamless journey from the current state (Point A) to the business's envisioned future (Point B). As a financial compass, Portal CFO empowers entrepreneurs to comprehend and bolster their business's economic well-being. The focus is on fostering a more profound understanding, enabling informed decision-making throughout the transformative voyage. By providing insights into the intricacies of financial health, Portal CFO ensures that business owners not only navigate but thrive, ultimately translating into the ability to make judicious and profitable decisions for sustained success. Tweetable Moments: 14:32 - "I do everything very, very simple so that the owner can understand, teach it to his or her team, and make it actionable." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Portal CFO website at https://portalcfo.com/ Check out Portal CFO on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/portal-cfo-consulting/ Check out Portal CFO on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/granddynamics/ Check out Manny Skevofilax on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/timwalther/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Grand Dynamics International, Tim Walther. Tim Walther's company is not your typical team-building organization. They specialize in creating outdoor adventure-based retreats and events beyond the usual ropes courses and trust falls. From multi-day executive retreats to keynote speakers, Grand Dynamics International is all about fostering relationships and enhancing teamwork through unique experiences. Tim emphasizes the importance of these unique experiences in forging deeper connections among team members. He believes that the familiar can only take you so far, and to truly impact a team, you must introduce novel and creative experiences that generate emotional engagement and connection. Tim's insight about team building exercises' short- and long-term impact was insightful. He compared motivation to taking a bath, stating that team building experiences must be consistent to have a lasting effect. The quality of the experience and the engagement of the participants also play a significant role in the impact of these exercises. Well-designed and unique experiences, according to Tim, have a greater impact on team dynamics and relationships. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Tim Walther, President and Founder of Grand Dynamics International Grand Dynamics specializes in team-building experiences for corporate teams Focus on creating unique and creative experiences for deeper connections among team members Short and long-term impact of team building exercises Tim's book, "All In Adventure Stories: The Bold Pursuit of Your Potential" Making adventure more accessible to everyone Recommendations for event planners and businesses Information on unique experiences for corporate events About Tim Walther: Tim Walther is a seasoned Adventurer, Trainer, Coach, Inspirational Speaker, and Author with over 25 years of experience integrating adventure psychology into business. Featured in prominent outlets such as The New York Times, Delta Sky Magazine, and Fox Sports News, Tim's training programs have reached 156 countries via The Voice of America. As the founder of Grand Dynamics International, he employs experiential learning and adventure to enhance leadership and team dynamics. Tim has authored multiple leadership development and adventure books, contributing articles to various publications. Renowned for his masterful facilitation, he has conducted leadership programs globally for major companies like Google, Bain Capital, and the Cleveland Clinic. Based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Tim is a dedicated adventure athlete, excelling in Alpine Mountaineering, Endurance Swimming, Free-Diving, and Multi-Sport Adventures. About Grand Dynamics International: Grand Dynamics International (GDI) is a pioneering force in experiential training and development, boasting over 21 years of expertise in crafting inspirational corporate events and personalized executive retreats. GDI's Adventure Speakers illuminate meetings, while their experiential events forge indelible memories and team-building programs dismantle barriers, fostering heightened engagement. GDI excels in customer-centric, cutting-edge experiential training and is dedicated to advancing individual, team, and organizational development. Their programs, led by a network of professionals ranging from world-class mountaineers to corporate executives, promise unparalleled impact and a direct contribution to improved business outcomes. GDI's commitment extends to inspiring global action, emphasizing the transformation of potential into tangible results. Comprising a nationwide and select international network of experts, GDI delivers Team Building Adventures, Leadership Training, Customized Corporate Retreats, action seminars, and Conference Breakout Sessions. Renowned for dynamic and tailored programs, GDI consistently exceeds client expectations, offering the most impactful team-building events and customised action-oriented seminars to meet specific group needs and business objectives. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Grand Dynamics International website at https://granddynamics.com/ Check out Grand Dynamics International on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-dynamics-international/ Check out Grand Dynamics International on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/granddynamics/ Check out Tim Walther on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/timwalther/ Check out Tim Walther on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/timwaltherallin/ Check out Tim Walther on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TimWalther More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Owner of 360 Sales Consulting, Benjamin Brown. Benjamin started his consulting business with a mission to teach others the language and skills of sales. He has helped build sales teams, hire salespeople, and provide coaching and training. According to Benjamin, sales is a simple concept of getting someone to move, whether it's through a billboard, website, or phone call. He emphasizes that sales is everywhere, and understanding the process can help salespeople avoid being perceived as pushy or salesy. One of Benjamin's unique approaches to working with clients involves role-playing and practicing sales skills. He firmly believes that sales is a skill that can only be learned through practice and experience. He also emphasizes the importance of asking questions and not making assumptions in sales conversations. By asking the right questions, salespeople can better understand their clients' needs and provide the right solutions. Benjamin stresses the importance of understanding your product and selling it effectively. He points out that potential clients constantly judge you, especially in verbal or in-person interactions. He suggests imagining a scenario where all modern technology is removed, and you must sell your product on the street. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Benjamin Brown, founder of 360 Sales Consulting Benjamin's experience in sales and his consulting business Sales is a simple concept of getting someone to move Importance of role-playing and practicing sales skills Emphasis on asking questions and not making assumptions in sales conversations Sales is a skill that can only be learned through practice and experience Understanding the core value of your product and communicating it effectively Utilizing the power of the cell phone for sales Caution against relying too heavily on others to sell for you About Benjamin Brown: Meet Benjamin Brown, a seasoned sales expert, accomplished author, and dedicated father of two. With an impressive 23-year career in sales, Benjamin has navigated diverse sectors, from stock brokerage-style cold calling to selling gym memberships and medical devices. Leveraging his extensive experience, he has crafted a comprehensive 10-step sales process designed to address the challenges faced by small businesses struggling with sales issues and low revenue. Benjamin's journey into sales coaching began during his tenure with Business Network International (BNI), where he identified a common deficiency among small businesses— the absence of a structured sales process. Recognizing the pivotal role sales training plays in business success, he embarked on a mission to share his wealth of knowledge with business owners. This initiative led to the creation of the Rapid Success Sales Process, a proven and tested methodology that empowers individuals and business owners to enhance their revenue and overall success. Benjamin Brown's dedication to refining the sales experience highlights the transformative impact of a well-executed sales strategy. About 360 Sales Consulting: 360 Sales Consulting offers a transformative solution to elevate your sales performance and propel you to new heights. This specialized service is designed to unlock your sales potential, providing essential skills training for business owners and sales representatives. By leveraging 360 Sales Consulting, you can significantly enhance your closing rate, resulting in increased revenue and financial success. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or a sales professional, this consulting service focuses on honing the crucial skills needed to thrive in the competitive sales landscape. Elevate your sales game, boost your earning potential, and take your business to the next level with the comprehensive guidance and expertise offered by 360 Sales Consulting. Tweetable Moments: 04:46, "For a salesperson, you have to understand that the things that I teach is never about you." 05:48 - "Sales is everywhere if you're married like I was and you stop selling you get divorced. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out 360 Sales Consulting website at https://www.360salesconsulting.com/ Check out 360 Sales Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindspansystems/ Check out Benjamin Brown on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/360sales/ Check out Benjamin Brown new book: “7 Steps to Close Sales Deals” at https://www.360salesconsulting.com/freeguide/ Check out Benjamin Brown on Facebook at https://facebook.com/ben.brown.102361 Check out Benjamin Brown on Instagram at https://instagram.com/benbrowntre More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Digital Clarity Company, Reggie James. Digital Clarity, under Reggie's leadership, has been instrumental in helping companies define their value proposition, target the right customers, and create a focused marketing strategy. Reggie introduced us to the 95/5 rule, which states that 95% of people engaging with a company are not ready to buy and are in the discovery phase. This rule emphasizes the importance of nurturing potential customers and providing them with the information they need to decide. It's not just about selling but building relationships and trust with your audience. Reggie also shed light on omnichannel marketing, where companies provide multiple touchpoints for customers to engage with their brand. This approach has become increasingly important in today's digital age, where customers expect seamless experiences across all platforms. He also highlighted the rise of online communities and buyer committees, where people discuss products and services. These platforms have significantly influenced today's market, shaping consumer decisions and perceptions about brands. Reggie reflected on his entrepreneurial journey and how it continues to evolve. He mentioned the emergence of new concepts like web3 and NFTs, bringing a new dimension to the business landscape. Reminiscing about the early days of the dot-com boom and his work at Ziff Davis, a pioneering technology publisher, Reggie emphasized the importance of narrative and depth in marketing. His experience in the print and advertising industry has shaped his approach to digital marketing, focusing on storytelling and creating meaningful connections with the audience. Key Points from the Episode: Digital Clarity's expertise in digital marketing for B2B tech companies Importance of defining value proposition, targeting the right customers, and creating a focused marketing strategy The 95/5 rule: 95% of people engaging with a company are not ready to buy Nurturing potential customers and providing them with information Omnichannel marketing and multiple touchpoints for customer engagement Rise of online communities and buyer committees The value of influence in today's market Importance of established leaders and track record in the buying decision process Reggie's commitment to being of service to potential clients Reflection on the entrepreneurial journey and the evolving business landscape Mention of web3 and NFTs as new concepts Importance of narrative and depth in marketing Digital Clarity's target audience: B2B companies, founders, and CEOs in the tech space About Reggie James: Reggie James is a seasoned marketing and digital strategy expert, boasting over three decades of experience in the field. Recognized for his transformative impact on organizations, Reggie has been a critical player in the evolution of digital marketing, actively shaping contemporary business models. As the founder of Digital Clarity, a leading consultancy, Reggie spearheads innovative approaches incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, analytics, and brand elevation. Reggie's company is renowned for strategic insights, driving marketing change, and delivering lasting value for clients. Reggie's unparalleled experience and inventive methods have left an indelible mark on various organizations, leveraging strategic marketing, advertising, and digital solutions. In an environment where B2B tech companies grapple with delivering results amidst resource constraints, Reggie stands out for providing CEOs and CMOs with invaluable guidance. His distinctive ability to challenge conventional thinking and deeply understand buyer journeys across diverse industries positions him as a transformative force in marketing and digital strategy. About Digital Clarity Company: Digital Clarity is a seasoned player in the dynamic digital marketing landscape, with roots tracing back to the era of iconic devices like the Sony Walkman, PS One consoles, and the Nokia 3310. With a wealth of experience from collaborations with creative minds in media agencies and digital pioneers, Digital Clarity has continuously evolved its journey. Today, the company is a valuable guide for businesses of all sizes, navigating the intricacies of the digital economy through well-crafted marketing strategies. Despite the changing tides of businesses, people, and technologies, Digital Clarity has honed a unique formula for success that has been refined over the years for its diverse range of clients. With a rich history and a commitment to staying at the forefront of digital marketing, Digital Clarity remains a trusted partner for companies seeking to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Digital Clarity website at https://www.digital-clarity.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with CEO of Mindspan Systems Inc., Rich Edwards. Rich Edwards, as the CEO of Mind Span Systems, leads a team that specializes in helping community financial institutions with marketing automation, communication, and personalization using data. They focus on smaller institutions with assets below 10 billion, which may not be technologically advanced but are looking to leverage tools like machine learning and AI to improve their services. Rich highlighted a phenomenon he called the 'barbell effect' in the banking industry. This effect is characterized by the dominance of large and smaller local banks in the market activity, leaving a gap in the middle. He also discussed the attitudes and trends of banking consumers, emphasizing the fear of another financial collapse and the concentration of activity at both ends of the banking spectrum. Rich explained that while AI is a powerful productivity tool, it won't immediately replace jobs but rather enhance the capabilities of professionals. He emphasized leveraging AI to focus on tasks that add value and differentiate a business. Under Rich's leadership, Mind Span Systems helps clients with specific pain points, such as cost savings and support use cases. However, the real value of AI, according to Rich, lies in uncovering new opportunities and tasks that were previously impossible. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Rich Edwards as CEO of Mind Span Systems MindSpan's work with community financial institutions Attitudes and trends of banking consumers Potential of AI in the banking industry Barbell effect in the banking industry AI as a productivity tool that enhances capabilities Specific pain points and value of AI in uncovering new opportunities Potential of using interns or assistants to enhance business operations MindSpan's resources on personalization in the banking industry About Rich Edwards: Rich Edwards serves as the CEO of Mindspan Systems, specializing in empowering community financial institutions through data-driven strategies and technologies. With a profound background in analytics, marketing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, he guides organizations toward transformative growth. Throughout his career, Rich has collaborated with global clients in banking, insurance, and financial services, demonstrating his expertise in product strategy related to data center automation and artificial intelligence. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the launch of IBM Watson Developer Cloud. Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Additionally, he served as an engineering officer in the US Army. Currently residing in Raleigh, NC, Rich Edwards and his family contribute to the local community. About Mindspan Systems Inc.: Mindspan Systems assists mid-market insurance, banking, and financial institutions with data-related challenges. Recognizing the frustration stemming from limited insights, the company facilitates the execution of data-driven strategies, fostering transformative changes and securing a sustainable competitive advantage. Mindspan Systems offers various services, including data science and data-driven technology solutions. These empower organizations to construct personalized experiences tailored for each customer, utilizing laser-focused, trackable, and testable messaging to optimize marketing budgets for customer acquisition and increased wallet share. The company prides itself on providing expertise and flexible, scalable solutions to meet specific requirements. Mindspan Systems stands ready to contribute its technical prowess and ensure the success of your organizational strategy. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Mindspan Systems Inc. website at https://mindspaninc.com/ Check out Mindspan Systems Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindspansystems/ Check out Mindspan Systems Inc. on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mindspansystems Check out Rich Edwards on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richedwards/ Check out Rich Edwards on Twitter at https://twitter.com/richedwards Check out Rich Edwards on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mindspan_systems More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Performance Coach, Whitney Alexandra. Whitney's clientele consists of successful women who have already achieved a multi-six figure level in their businesses. However, they often find themselves at a plateau, whether a sales or revenue plateau or a passion plateau, where they feel disconnected from their business. This is where Whitney steps in, helping them get clear on their next success level and find the easiest path to achieve it. Whitney suggests an exercise to help listeners get started on the path to clarity. She advises thinking about their considerable revenue or business goal and multiplying it by ten. This brainstorming activity opens up creative options and can be a game-changer. Whitney emphasizes that her approach is not about working harder but about doing less more smartly. She helps her clients delegate and streamline their operations for maximum efficiency. Whitney Alexandra is no stranger to recognition. She has received accolades from a consulting firm for her exceptional sales performance. However, she acknowledges that, like everyone else, she is not immune to making mistakes and getting in her own way. In the age of social media, she discusses the concept of authenticity and how she is working on creating more candid content to share important stories and insights. Whitney emphasizes the need to take action quickly and not wait for the perfect moment or appearance. She encourages her clients to remove the pressure of perfection and focus on what is fast and easy. She shares a success story of a client who had been delaying sending an email to their list but ended up making $100,000 in sales that week after embracing the idea of speed and imperfection. Key Points from the Episode: Whitney Alexandra's work as a performance coach for women leaders and entrepreneurs Helping clients scale their businesses in alignment with their desires and fulfillment Assisting clients in overcoming plateaus in their business and finding clarity in their goals Encouraging clients to think bigger and ask new questions to break out of their comfort zones Suggesting an exercise of multiplying big revenue or business goals by ten for creative options Emphasizing the importance of working smarter, not harder, and delegating tasks Reflecting on personal experiences and mistakes and the concept of authenticity in social media Encouraging taking quick action and embracing imperfection for faster results Discussing the humanizing aspect of vulnerability and connecting with others facing similar challenges About Whitney Alexandra: Whitney Alexandra is a renowned Performance Coach who empowers top women entrepreneurs to achieve unprecedented success and lead extraordinary lives. With over two decades of experience, Whitney has become a trusted guide for influential business owners seeking to unlock their full potential. Employing evidence-based performance coaching strategies, Whitney facilitates rapid and transformative shifts for her clients, often elevating every aspect of their personal and professional lives within a few short months. In recognition of her expertise, Whitney was honored as a prestigious Forbes Business Council member in 2023. She is a thought leader and contributor on this global platform, actively engaging in higher-level conversations and fostering connections for women entrepreneurs worldwide. Whitney's coaching philosophy centers around rewiring mindsets for limitless success. Her 20-year journey includes assisting some of the world's most reputable brands and leaders in their transformative endeavors. Through a unique blend of performance coaching, mindset tools, and tailored strategies, Whitney focuses on clearing subconscious, energetic, and emotional blocks to enable her clients to embrace the incredible lives they deserve. As a beacon of empowerment, she guides individuals to unleash their inner potential and emerge ready to receive the success they desire. Tweetable Moments: 11:40 - "In this world of being real on social media, there's something really nice about showing up and not having to look 100% or being in a you know going live and talking about your business or your offers." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Whitney Alexandra’s website at https://whitneyalexandra.co/ Check out Whitney Alexandra’s company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/whitneyinc/ Check out Whitney Alexandra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyalexandra/ Check out Whitney Alexandra on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WhitneyInc Check out Whitney Alexandra on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/whitney.alexandra/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level i

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Sprig, Ryan Glasgow. Sprig is a platform that helps businesses gather user feedback through in-product surveys, session replays, and data analysis with artificial intelligence. They've worked with big names like Netflix, Dropbox, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Peloton, ensuring these companies get a representative sample of user experiences. Ryan shared that Sprig has an impressive response rate of 33% for their surveys. He compared this to platforms like Yelp, where only a small percentage of users leave reviews, but those reviews are generally accurate representations of the overall experience. Ryan emphasized the importance of understanding user experience. He cited companies that have faced backlash and struggled due to a lack of customer perception. In his view, companies that don't prioritize understanding their customers may lack empathy and risk falling behind in a competitive and challenging economic environment. One of the most exciting aspects of Sprig is its implementation of AI for data analysis. Ryan explained that they use advanced AI models to summarize and analyze large amounts of survey data. This provides meaningful insights and even suggestions for improving the product experience. The potential for conversations with AI entities that understand the data and can help make decisions based on customer feedback is groundbreaking. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Ryan Glasgow, founder and CEO of Sprig Sprig's services in gathering user feedback for companies like Netflix, Dropbox, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Peloton Comparison of Sprig's high response rate for surveys to platforms like Yelp Importance of understanding user experience and its impact on companies Implementation of AI for data analysis and providing insights and suggestions for product improvement Potential applications of Sprig for large enterprise-level companies and early-stage startups Vision for the future of Sprig and advancements in AI Importance of valuing customer feedback and increasing customer loyalty Future of delivering exceptional experiences through targeted surveys About Ryan Glasgow: Ryan Glasgow, Founder and CEO of Sprig (formerly UserLeap), is a seasoned figure in the tech industry. His brainchild, Sprig, is a research platform specializing in advanced usability testing and in-product survey capabilities, catering to renowned companies like Dropbox, Loom, and Shift. An accomplished author, Glasgow penned "The Customer-Obsessed Product Manager's Playbook" and currently hosts the People Driven Products Podcast. He has a robust product management background and previously held key roles such as group product manager at Weebly, product manager at Vurb, and product designer at Extrabux. Ryan's contributions to the industry underscore his expertise in enhancing user experience and driving product innovation. Sprig: Sprig is a dynamic product insights platform that empowers teams to enhance their products through swift user insights. Its capabilities span from testing new designs and prototypes to optimizing core user flows. Trusted by prominent companies, including Dropbox, Square, Notion, and Loom, Sprig is pivotal in enabling these teams to construct superior product experiences on a large scale. Sprig contributes to the evolution of user-centric designs and refining essential user interactions by facilitating rapid and informed decision-making. Its impact is evident in the tech landscape, where it serves as a valuable resource for organizations committed to staying at the forefront of product innovation and ensuring optimal user satisfaction. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Sprig website at https://sprig.com/ Check out Sprig on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sprig-official Check out Sprig on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Sprig Check out Ryan Glasgow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanglasgow/ Check out Ryan Glasgow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ryanglasgow More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Head of Product Marketing of RudderStack, Eric Dodds. RudderStack is a customer data platform designed to help businesses collect, integrate, and utilize customer data. It's a tool that breaks down data silos, providing a comprehensive view of the customer journey. This platform offers tools to analyze and utilize data effectively, such as identifying potential churn customers and prioritizing leads for the sales team. Eric highlighted the consequences of not working with data effectively. These include difficulty in making decisions and challenges in team collaboration. Understanding past performance and making informed decisions becomes a daunting task without proper data analysis. Conflicting data across different teams can also hinder collaboration and alignment. Rudder Stack aims to solve these challenges by providing a data infrastructure that enables businesses to leverage their data for growth. Eric explained that RudderStack's pricing model is based on a volume basis. Customers are charged based on the amount of data they send through the system. The simplicity of their pricing structure is a testament to their belief in keeping things simple for their customers. Eric also shared some background information about RudderStack. The core of their product is open source, providing high transparency for customers. This transparency is a key part of RudderStack's commitment to helping businesses of all sizes, from startups to enterprise-level organizations, effectively utilize their data. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Eric Dodds, Head of Product Marketing at RudderStack Discussion on RudderStack, a customer data platform Features and benefits of RudderStack Target audience of Rudder Stack (data leaders in companies of all sizes) Data privacy and security Consequences of not working with data effectively RudderStack's mission to provide a data infrastructure for growth Pricing model of Rudder Stack (volume-based) Best practices for early-stage companies using Rudder Stack About Eric Dodds: Eric Dodds, a resident of South Carolina, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for technology, mountain activities, and, notably, strong coffee. His commitment to faith and role as a loving husband are central aspects of his life. As the founder of Yield Group, a marketing technology company, Eric leads efforts to empower businesses by facilitating the collection, processing, analysis, and actionable use of essential data for growth. Eric boasts a rich professional history, having co-founded and overseen marketing at The Iron Yard, which evolved into the world's largest in-person code school. His extensive marketing experience spans agency and client roles, contributing to renowned brands such as Best Buy, Double Day, and Colonial Williamsburg. Beyond the professional realm, Eric dedicates time to family, enjoying activities like reading, mountain biking, and crafting in his workshop. About RudderStack: RudderStack is the foremost warehouse Customer Data Platform, uniquely tailored for data teams. Distinguished by its integration with existing warehouses or data lakes, RudderStack operates without storing data internally, addressing security apprehensions, cutting costs, and optimizing the potential of warehouse investments. Trusted by prominent companies such as Stripe, Crate and Barrel, Priceline, and Footlocker, RudderStack is the conduit for these enterprises to efficiently collect and transmit their invaluable data to the requisite tools and teams. With a commitment to innovation and reliability, RudderStack emerges as a pivotal solution, facilitating seamless data management and utilization for diverse businesses. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out RudderStack website at https://www.rudderstack.com/ Check out RudderStack on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/rudderstack Check out RudderStack on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RudderStack Check out Eric Dodds on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdodds/ Check out Eric Dodds on Instagram at https://twitter.com/ericdodds More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief of Operations & Founder of Stafi, Demetrio Rico & Raquel Gomes. Demetrio explained that Stafi's vetting and screening process is incredibly rigorous, with only 1% of applicants cutting. This ensures that only the best and most qualified individuals are hired. Stafi takes pride in training its staff in-house and providing ongoing support to ensure they add value to the law firms they are paired with. They don't just provide staff; they act as an extension of the law firms, handling onboarding, continuous education, and training for the virtual team. They even have a full-time psychologist dedicated to supporting the staff, which is a testament to their commitment to their employees' well-being. Raquel added that Stafi offers different types of coaches to support the virtual staff representatives. Their client success team is in constant touch with the law firm owners, acting as their business partners. Demetrio and Raquel emphasized helping law firms and lawyers with business development and sales strategies. They pointed out that many law firms mistakenly believe they need to hire more paralegals when what they need is to free up their time and focus on growing their business. Stafi aims to help them find someone who can handle certain aspects of their business just as well, if not better, than they can, allowing them to scale their business to the next level. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Demetrio Rico and Raquel Gomez, co-founders of Stafi Overview of Stafi's services for law firms specializing in virtual staffing Strict vetting and screening process for hiring virtual staff In-house training and ongoing support for virtual staff Different types of coaches and client success teams for support and engagement Advantages of partnering with Stafi instead of recruiting locally Importance of helping law firms with business development and sales strategies Empathy and sales skills in a receptionist or intake person role Negative impact of interruptions on efficiency About Raquel Gomes: Raquel Gomes, a passionate entrepreneur and advocate for women in business, hails from the south of Brazil. Armed with a unique blend of expertise as a licensed psychologist with an MBA in International Business, Raquel is the founder of Stafi. Her company specializes in sourcing highly qualified offshore staff, enabling business owners, particularly women entrepreneurs, to focus on core tasks that drive client satisfaction and business growth. Having excelled as a sales Rockstar and a leader of Rockstar Sales Teams, Raquel emphasizes the importance of balancing professional success with cherished moments with loved ones and self-love. Despite her success in business, family and friends hold paramount importance in her life. A fascinating aspect of Raquel's journey is her upbringing without television until age 16, instilling in her a unique perspective on screen time and fostering a creative mindset, a principle she now applies in raising her daughter. About Demetrio Rico: Demetrio Rico, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, has significantly impacted the global telecommunications sector through his leadership in successful sales teams. Demetrio recently served as the Global Vice President of Sales for 2600Hz, contributing to the company's rapid growth. Before this role, Demetrio held key positions, including Global Director of Service Provider Development for Five9, where he played a pivotal role in launching cloud contact centers for service providers. His extensive journey includes serving as Director of Customer Experience for Cisco and as Global Vice President of Professional Services for Broadsoft, leading a substantial team with an impressive annual revenue of over 16 million dollars. Demetrio's wealth of team management experience and business skills led him to his current role as Stafi's Chief Operating Officer, marking a new chapter in his impactful career. About Stafi: Stafi is a dynamic company that boasts a skilled team comprising executive and personal assistants alongside customer service specialists. With a commitment to providing scalable and flexible staffing solutions, Stafi caters to the needs of global legal firms and tech companies. Their services encompass diverse professional roles and promise cost-effective and low-risk staffing solutions. By offering a mix of executive and personal assistants, Stafi addresses the multifaceted demands of businesses, allowing them to optimize their workforce efficiently. The company's emphasis on scalability and flexibility ensures that clients can adapt their staffing needs according to the evolving requirements of their projects or operations. Stafi's innovative approach aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, making it a valuable partner for legal and tech entities seeking reliable and adaptive staffing solutions. Apply to be a

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Cribworks, Whitney Stowell. Whitney's expertise lies in helping companies build their sales pipelines and account management plans to position themselves for success. In our conversation, she shared invaluable insights every business owner should know. Whitney's work involves identifying leaks in the sales pipeline and addressing why leads may not convert into demo meetings or potential proposals. She emphasizes the importance of vetting opportunities and understanding the customer's needs and preferences, especially in larger enterprise-level deals. Whitney also mentioned the importance of professional associations as a valuable source of warm leads and partnership opportunities. These associations provide a platform for networking and building relationships that can lead to potential business opportunities. In terms of sales cadences, Whitney suggests considering whether there is a compelling event or reason for the customer to move forward with the opportunity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's motivations and needs to avoid spinning wheels on unproductive engagements. Whitney advises against being pushy or solely focused on selling. Instead, she suggests leaning into the role of a trusted advisor and treating customers like friends. By genuinely advocating for their best interests, you can create the best possible outcomes for them. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Whitney Stoll, CEO and Founder of Carriageworks Focus on building sales pipelines and account management plans Identifying leaks in the sales pipeline and addressing conversion issues Importance of vetting opportunities and understanding customer needs Role of emotions and relationships in sales, particularly in government contracting Importance of differentiation and addressing customer needs Importance of asking great questions and active listening Consideration of compelling events and customer motivations in sales cadences Importance of staying engaged with customers and providing relevant content About Whitney Stowell: Whitney Stowell is the CEO and Founder of Cribworks, a Washington, DC-based sales and business development consulting firm specializing in data-driven sales growth services. With over 15 years of industry experience spanning commercial, startup, and government contracting, Whitney has held diverse roles in marketing, business development, corporate strategy, and government affairs. Whitney's impressive career includes contributions to notable organizations such as Signify (formerly Philips Lighting), Major League Rugby's Old Glory DC franchise, Royal Philips, Elbit Systems of America, Chenega Corporation, and the United States Senate's Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs committee. Beyond his professional endeavors, Whitney actively engages in community service. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) DC Post, addressing national security infrastructure challenges. In the local rugby community, Whitney has been President of the Washington Irish Rugby Football Club and supports youth rugby clubs. Additionally, he participates in various organizations in Washington DC, including the Smart Cities Group, Association for United States Army (AUSA), and USA Rugby. Whitney holds a B.A. from Bates College in Maine and certifications in business development and capture management from Shipley University. About Cribworks: Cribworks is a dynamic startup consulting firm that guides businesses through the entire business cycle. As a client-centric and results-oriented business development consulting firm, Cribworks offers affordable, comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of its clients. Specializing in sales and business development consulting, the firm collaborates exclusively with clients to enhance their potential for success. From tactical short-term engagements to strategic long-term positioning, Cribworks delivers tangible, actionable results that propel businesses in the right direction. The firm provides a full spectrum of business development consulting services to local, state, national, and multinational clients, prioritizing delivering tailored solutions. Cribworks emphasizes direct collaboration with clients on initiatives such as developing new and existing business opportunities, competitive intelligence, marketing strategies, and sound financial decision-making. The firm is committed to fostering enduring partnerships, ensuring client businesses thrive and achieve their long-term goals. With a personalized approach that recognizes each business's unique challenges and advantages, Cribworks stands steadfastly alongside clients today, tomorrow, and into the future. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Ch

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Uniquely Normal, LLC, Matt Lesser. Matt's approach to leadership development is as unique as the organizations he works with. He tailors his strategies based on the specific needs of each organization, whether it's conflict management, communication, or other areas. Matt's work isn't limited to individual leaders; he extends his expertise to the entire organization. He provides executive coaching to senior leaders or teams and plays a crucial role in developing new organizational leaders. Matt's new book, "Unengaged: Building Flourishing Organizations," is a treasure trove of practical guidance for leaders. It explores three pillars of building a flourishing organization: empathy, empowerment, and excellence. Regarding empathy, Matt can't stress enough the importance of genuinely knowing and understanding people. He encourages leaders to take a relational approach rather than a transactional one. According to Matt, sharing stories is a great starting point as it opens the door to a person's heart. Matt believes leaders who embrace empathy, empowerment, and equipping their teams will have lower turnover and engagement issues than those who do not prioritize these aspects. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Matt Lesser, founder of Uniquely Normal and author of two books Matt's work with family businesses and focus on leadership development Matt's approach to working with individual leaders and the entire organization Discussion of Matt's new book, "Unengaged: Building Flourishing Organizations" Exploration of the three pillars of building a flourishing organization: empathy, empowerment, and excellence Emphasis on the importance of empathy and understanding in leadership Discussion on effectively communicating sensitive information within an organization The importance of empowering employees and allowing them to do their job Addressing employee concerns and taking action based on feedback About Matt Lesser: Matt Lesser, a resilient entrepreneur and seasoned executive, initially faced adversity when his family business faltered, leading him into a dark period of suicidal depression. Rising from this setback, he founded a successful company that expanded from three to nearly two hundred employees, experiencing a remarkable twenty-fold increase in revenue before a strategic sale to trusted competitors. With a twelve-year tenure in private equity C-Suite roles and subsequent transitional roles in banking and commercial uniforms, Lesser accumulated a wealth of experience. In 2021, he established Uniquely Normal, LLC, empowering leaders to address people-related challenges through empathy, empowerment, and excellence. A bestselling author with "unSatisfied: When Less is More," Lesser is also a certified executive coach adept in numerous personality, preference, and leadership assessments. He has been a sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator for over two decades, engaging leaders globally. His upcoming book, "unEngaged: Building Flourishing Organizations," is slated for release on October 24, 2023. Matt, who married his elementary school sweetheart in 1996, resides in northeast Indiana with his family. About Uniquely Normal, LLC: Uniquely Normal, LLC addresses workforce management challenges, offering a comprehensive solution to concerns such as high turnover, low engagement, and productivity issues. Specializing in equipping leaders and leadership teams, the company provides practical tools, training, coaching, and resources. By fostering the intentional development of team members, Uniquely Normal aims to transform organizations into flourishing entities. The approach yields tangible benefits, including a significant reduction in turnover, heightened engagement and productivity, efficient filling of open positions, and a notable increase in commitment and loyalty. The Uniquely Normal team employs proven practices and practical applications, focusing on three core principles: empathy, empowerment, and excellence. By intentionally integrating these principles, leaders and teams are equipped to build and sustain flourishing organizations. Uniquely Normal, LLC, thus, serves as a valuable partner for businesses seeking to enhance their team dynamics and overall organizational success. Tweetable Moments: 08:08 - "Once you see a person's heart, you will not view that person the same way again." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Uniquely Normal, LLC website at https://www.uniquelynormal.com/ Check out Uniquely Normal, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniquely-normal-llc/ Check out Matt Lesser on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/deb.crowe/ Check out Matt Lesser on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lesser/ Check out Matt Lesser 2nd New book: unEngaged:

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Certified Life & Leadership Coach, Deb Crowe. Deb defines heart-centered leadership as honoring your connection with people. She firmly believes that everyone has the potential to be a leader, regardless of their title or status. Deb explained that thriving leaders possess high self-awareness and model heart-centered leadership. She emphasized the importance of looking after your people and fostering a healthy organizational culture. Deb talked about her insights on the state of leading people and what people want today. She underscored the importance of checking in with introverts on the team and creating a safe space for open communication. According to Deb, leadership belongs to all of us in our personal lives and business. She emphasizes the importance of integrating heart-centered leadership into business acumen, something she believes has been missing for a long time. She emphasizes that she coaches the whole person and focuses on creating goals and achieving them without creating codependency. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of kindness and connection in leadership State of leading people in today's world Challenges and considerations of remote work and employee engagement The definition of heart-centered leadership as honoring connection with people Thriving as a leader and imbuing heart-centered qualities Evolution of corporate wellness and looking after the whole person Importance of checking in with introverts and creating a safe space for communication Every leader should read Deb's book on heart-centered leadership Transformation leaders can expect from reading the book Deb's work as a life and leadership coach for executives at all levels About Deborah Crowe: Deborah Crowe, author of "The Heart-Centered Leadership Playbook," is a visionary leader reshaping the traditional leadership landscape. Deborah's transformative guide offers practical tools and strategies to inspire purposeful and passionate leadership at both individual and organizational levels. Praised by Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia, and Dr. Chris Stout, bestselling author and clinical psychologist, Deborah's playbook combines personal anecdotes, research-backed insights, and practical strategies. It illuminates a path toward authentic leadership, challenging conventional norms with valuable tools and self-reflections that nurture genuine self-awareness. Deborah's book delves into the significance of embracing vulnerability, active listening, and fostering meaningful connections to unlock the true potential of leaders and their teams. Drawing on extensive research, real-world examples, and personal experiences, she provides a comprehensive roadmap for cultivating self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and ethical decision-making. "The Heart-Centered Leadership Playbook" is a must-read for aspiring leaders, seasoned executives, and anyone seeking positive change in their personal and professional lives. Deborah's work reflects a commitment to redefining leadership through heart-centered principles, making her a trailblazer in transformative leadership. Tweetable Moments: 02:53 - "They know who they are because they have an immeasurable level of self-awareness. Who wouldn't want to work for somebody like that? A heart-centered leader at the helm of any organization is fostering the creation of a healthy, vital culture." 16:43 - " I think during COVID, we got to see how we all became zombies on computers and our phones, and we were kind of stuck at home, and it was important to get up." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Deborah Crowe’s website at https://debcrowe.com/ Check out Deborah Crowe on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/debcrowe/ Check out Deborah Crowe on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/deb.crowe/ Check out Deborah Crowe on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredleader/?hl=en Check out Deborah Crowe on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Over40Wisdom More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the General Manager at Meow Wolf, Jeff Lund. Jeff Lund, the General Manager of Meow Wolf's Omega Mart in Las Vegas, shared his insights and experiences about this unique art exhibition. Meow Wolf's Omega Mart is not your typical art exhibition; it is an immersive and interactive art installation that aims to make art accessible to people of all ages. One of the highlights of Jeff's discussion was the joy and fascination he witnessed among visitors. The experience captivated children and adults, and the exhibition provided numerous opportunities for capturing memorable moments for social media enthusiasts. Jeff mentioned that the average visitor spends about an hour and a half to two hours exploring the exhibition. He also mentioned a game called "boop" that allows visitors to become grocery store employees. Jeff encouraged visitors to approach the experience openly and embrace their creativity. He hopes the exhibition will inspire visitors to explore their creativity in various art forms, such as music, painting, or other mediums. Key Points from the Episode: Description of MeowWolf as an experiential, touch-and-feel, exploratory art installation Meow Wolf's mission to make art accessible to all ages and encourage exploration Introduction of Jeff Lund as the General Manager of Omega Mart in Las Vegas Omega Mart as a grocery store with unique products and a mysterious storyline Sense of glee and fascination among visitors, including children Average time spent exploring Omega Mart (1.5 to 2 hours) Operating hours of Omega Mart (noon to midnight, weekends open at 10 am) About Jeff Lund: Jeff Lund is a seasoned professional with a diverse aviation, live events, and cruise management background. With over 13 years of experience, he honed his leadership and financial management skills in the dynamic world of business aviation, overseeing a massive marketplace of 200+ corporate jets. Jeff's journey led him to Cirque du Soleil's touring production, TOTEM, where he excelled in overseeing global operations for 130 technicians, artists, and staff across 26 cities. His innovative thinking successfully launched the VIP Behind the Scenes Tour, enhancing the guest experience and contributing millions in additional revenue. Transitioning to Carnival Cruise Line, Jeff's leadership propelled a ship from 14th to 2nd in the fleet, showcasing his ability to thrive in uncertain environments. Known for setting clear expectations and fostering high-performing teams, Jeff Lund is a proven leader with a positive attitude and a track record of success. About Meow Wolf: Meow Wolf, an avant-garde arts and entertainment company, revolutionizes immersive experiences, captivating millions with fantastical realms of imagination. Renowned for groundbreaking achievements, including Time Out's #1 Immersive Experience in the US (2023) and Fast Company's World's 50 Most Innovative Companies (2022, 2020), Meow Wolf engages curious minds through discovery and play. Collaborating with visionary artists sets them apart. This is evident in their inaugural creation, the THEA Award-winning House Of Eternal Return in Santa Fe (2016), a mystery house blending hidden passages and captivating art. Meow Wolf's recent unveiling, The Real Unreal, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (July 2023), and plans for a 2024 Houston location showcase their commitment to defying conventions and blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. As a certified B-Corporation, Meow Wolf stands at the forefront of themed entertainment, celebrating and innovating the boundless realm of human imagination. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Meow Wolf website at https://meowwolf.com/ Check out Meow Wolf on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/meow-wolf/ Check out Meow Wolf on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/meowwolf.sf Check out Meow Wolf on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/meow__wolf/ Check out Meow Wolf on Twitter at https://twitter.com/meowwolf Check out Jeff Lund on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-lund-60aa761/ Check out Bill Simmons on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jeffdlund More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Thrive Business Operations, Bill Simmons. Bill Simmons founded Thrive Business Operations with a clear vision in mind. He saw a gap in the market for outsourced executive leadership, specifically on the operations side of businesses. For over a decade, Thrive Business Operations has been offering fractional SEO services and serving as a chief operations officer for various businesses. Bill's role is to assist business owners whose vision is outpacing their operations. While he acknowledges that he can't eliminate the gap entirely, his goal is to shrink it and help operations meet the demands of the company's vision. Bill emphasized the importance of a clear vision for founders. He believes that founders are visionaries and creators who aspire to be part of something bigger than themselves. However, he also warned against the trap of thinking that nobody can manage or love the business like the founder. This mindset, he cautioned, can limit growth and prevent the founder from scaling their business. Key Points from the Episode: Bill Simmons' role at Thrive Business Operations The need for outsourced executive leadership in operations Shrinking the gap between vision and operations The role of a founder and the importance of a clear vision The five-step process called the Thrive Ops Cycle Connecting and aligning with client values and vision Identifying impactful goals and initiatives using the OKR framework The involvement of the Thrive team in client's operations About Bill Simmons: Bill Simmons is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience dedicated to aiding business owners in enhancing profits and reducing frustrations through strategic execution and organizational advancement. As the founder of Thrive Business Operations, he specializes in Fractional COO Services, addressing operational challenges for growing businesses. Bill's expertise extends to leadership and success, and he has captivated audiences worldwide, delivering impactful speeches to over 250,000 individuals. His gift as a storyteller inspires and imparts valuable insights from his wealth of experience. Thrive Business Operations focuses on unlocking business growth by integrating a Fractional Team and optimizing operations through The Thrive OpsCycle, emphasizing smooth operations, improved communication, and heightened accountability. About Thrive Business Operations: Thrive Business Operations specializes in Fractional COO Services, offering expertise in team building to bring entrepreneurial visions to fruition. Targeting entrepreneurs and small business leaders seeking relief from the challenges of having their business run them, Thrive excels in minimizing operational frustrations, even for those opposed to systems and processes. The company's strategies are designed to optimize time management, enhance team efficiency, and yield cost savings. Thrive Business Operations stands out for its commitment to streamlining operations by addressing the common struggle of businesses running individuals. Whether you dislike systems and processes or seek improved effectiveness, Thrive's approach is tailored to reduce frustrations and empower business leaders to regain control. Tweetable Moments: 03:25 - "Don't be a founder or business owner that we've all fallen into that trap where we may be tempted to say nobody does it like me, nobody will manage this or love this like me.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Thrive Business Operations website at https://saragilbert.coach/ Check out Thrive Business Operations on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivebusinessoperations/ Check out Thrive Business Operations on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thrivebusinessoperations Check out Thrive Business Operations on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thrivebusinessoperations/ Check out Bill Simmons on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/billsimmonslive Check out Bill Simmons on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BillSimmonsLive Check out Bill Simmons on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/billsimmonslive/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Strategist & Certified Coach of Strategist Business Development, Sara Gilbert. Sara Gilbert is not your average business strategist. She believes that the success of a business is not solely dependent on its strategy but also on the mindset of its leaders. According to Sara, the alignment of the business and the direction of the strategy are crucial, but they can only go as far as the mindset of the entrepreneur and leaders allow. This perspective emphasizes the importance of psychology in the success or failure of a business. Sara works closely with her clients to develop a strategic framework for their business. This framework includes the positioning of the business in the marketplace, its brand promise, values, and vision. Leveraging her expertise in psycholinguistics, Sara understands how words influence behavior. She strategically positions linguistic elements in the framework to engage both the entrepreneur and their team. By repeating and embodying these linguistic elements, they become part of the organization's vocabulary and guide decision-making. One of the challenges Sara addresses is the disconnect between organizations' mission statements and values and their daily operations. She suggests using linguistic techniques to bring these elements to life. This exercise helps create a standard and a sense of identity within the organization. By incorporating these linguistic elements into meetings, brainstorming sessions, and physical or tangible outputs, the organization can consistently live its values and demonstrate its positioning in the marketplace. Key Points from the Episode: Sara Gilbert's work as a business strategist and mindset coach The importance of business strategy and mindset in entrepreneurship The alignment of business strategy and mindset Sara's strategic framework for businesses The use of psycholinguistics in strategic positioning Bringing mission statements and values to life through linguistic techniques How to know if someone is ready for disruption and change in their life or organization Recommendations for individuals resonating with the conversation About Sara Gilbert: Sara Gilbert is a distinguished business strategist, mindset coach, and keynote speaker, recognized as a "Top 10 Up-and-Coming Entrepreneurs in 2023" by Success Magazine. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing from Concordia University, she boasts top designations in wealth management and double certification in personal and professional coaching with neurolinguistic programming (NLP). Sara is among the select Canadian coaches invited to the Forbes Coaches Council, an honor reserved for eminent business coaches. She's also a Harvard Business Review Advisory Council member and the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers. A multi-passionate entrepreneur, Sara is deeply intrigued by business, consumer psychology, and human behavior. Her unconventional journey led her to create a unique business model that addresses the intersection of business, mindset, and behavioral patterns. Sara's turnkey approach assists entrepreneurs and business leaders develop a growth mindset, implement efficient processes, and execute profitable marketing strategies. As a trusted coach, she empowers individuals and corporations to structure their businesses for success and a balanced lifestyle, earning accolades for her impactful work in business development and coaching. Tweetable Moments: 09:03 - "Being an anti-drifter is about bringing intentionality into our life and bringing life into our life and our business.” 9:30 - “Complaining is not a bad thing. Complaining is like, 'I know there's more and I know there's more in me as well.'" Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Strategist Business Development website at https://saragilbert.coach/ Check out Strategist Business Development Inc on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategist-business-development/ Check out Sara Gilbert on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SaraGilbertStrategist Check out Sara Gilbert on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/saragilbertstrategist/ Check out Sara Gilbert on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/saragilbert/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Afterburner Inc., Christian Boucousis. Boo, a former fighter pilot, shed light on the Afterburner mindset, a concept deeply rooted in his experiences in the cockpit. He explained that this mindset is not just about grit and determination, but also about analytical thinking and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. As a fighter pilot, Boo explained, everything happens quickly. There is a constant need to balance the unknown (the airplane's trajectory) with the known (the pilot's control). This mindset, he believes, is a blend of the art of strategy and the science of getting things done. Boo emphasized the importance of storytelling and creating a compelling narrative in business. He drew parallels between the captivating narratives of "Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars" and the often lackluster stories in the business world. Afterburner, he explained, helps organizations create a high-definition destination, a clear and purposeful story that aligns everyone's actions. Boo stressed the importance of debriefing in a supportive peer group, as they can help identify blind spots and provide valuable insights. He compared this process to cognitive behavioral therapy, where emotions are unpacked through action. He also highlighted the significance of having a clear purpose and the need to achieve tangible results, as positive thoughts alone may not be enough. Key Points from the Episode: Afterburner mindset and its connection to being a fighter pilot Importance of analytical thinking and working in a fast-paced environment The art of strategy and the science of getting things done Importance of storytelling and creating a compelling narrative in business Afterburner methodology: plan, brief, execute, and debrief ORCA process: Objective, Result, Cause, and Action Importance of debriefing in a supportive peer group Working with large enterprises and small/medium-sized businesses Afterburner offerings: keynotes, experiential programs, learning and development modules About Christian Boucousis: Christian Boucousis, widely known as "Boo," serves as the CEO of Afterburner, a global human and organizational performance company. Renowned as a world-class keynote speaker, Boo employs a results-oriented approach that has left a lasting impact on individuals and organizations worldwide.   Boo's revolutionary "Evolutionary Way of Thinking" has transformed the approach to achieving immediate and sustained performance leaps, discarding outdated models. His innovative concept of "Thought Loops" imparts fast-thinking, fast-acting skills to leaders and teams, fostering a growth mindset and enabling consistent surpassing of expectations. With a proven track record, Boo has received countless positive reviews from satisfied clients, showcasing the tangible impact of his insights. His life story, marked by adaptability and reinvention, reflects his ability to succeed in adversity. From fighter pilot to building a humanitarian business with a $200 million turnover and leading transformative projects, Boo's diverse experiences enrich his motivational speeches. Boo's unique blend of expertise, energy, and passion positions him as an ideal keynote speaker for those seeking inspiration and empowerment. Beyond providing tools for goal achievement, Boo inspires individuals to unlock their full potential, fostering positive impacts in both personal and professional spheres. About Afterburner Inc: Established in 1996, Afterburner Inc. pioneered integrating battlefield mission planning and strategic tactics into the corporate realm. Comprising consultants with backgrounds in elite military teams and extensive business leadership experience, Afterburner has dedicated two decades to aligning strategy with daily activities and ensuring disciplined execution of mission-critical systems. The company's renowned methodology and flawless Execution is a powerful force multiplier for organizations, facilitating alignment, focus, and effective execution of key leverage points. As practitioners of a hands-on and embedded approach, Afterburner is committed to developing leaders, enhancing communication and collaboration, fostering agility, and instilling team and individual accountability through a shared mental model. Beyond immediate engagements, Afterburner's goal is to contribute to the sustained success of organizations. With a mission to make client success its own, Afterburner remains a trusted partner in driving organizational excellence. Tweetable Moments: 5:17 - “So if you start with known and unknown and you want to turn that into success, so the unknown is more the art of strategy. If we take those two states and we say yes, despite that being unknown, I still have to get things done and I still have to be successful.” 11:11 - “Self awareness is one of the hardest things to have. We want to be self aware, but at the same time we don't

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Edinger Consulting, Scott K. Edinger. Scott emphasizes that growth is not just a sales issue, but a leadership one. He underscores the importance of aligning sales with strategy. A shocking statistic he shared is that 86% of CEOs do little to nothing to align sales with strategy, which he finds tragic. Many executives, he explains, focus on the capabilities of their products and services and expect the sales team to simply go out and sell them. Scott also talks about the need for sales teams to focus on creating value in the sales experience rather than just communicating the product or service's value. He suggests having conversations with customers where expertise is shared and insights are provided to help them achieve their objectives. This approach differentiates the sales team and eliminates the need for pressuring customers for a close at the end of the quarter. However, Scott believes executives should be more engaged with their sales team and recognize that the sales experience can be a differentiating factor. He emphasizes that sales is executing the company's strategy and that success or failure occurs on every sales call. Scott generously discusses the free resources available on his website, scottedinger.com. He has written a hundred articles for publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, and Chief Executive, and provides links to all of them on the website's articles page. These articles cover topics related to leadership, strategy, and sales. Scott also mentions a 30-page workbook called the Growth Leader Workbook, which can be downloaded from the website's books page. This workbook is a companion to his book and provides practical application of its ideas. The workbook contains charts and graphs that can be helpful for sales professionals. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of aligning sales with strategy Sales as the execution of the company's strategy Differentiating through the sales experience Inspiring and motivating teams for growth Free resources available on Scott Edinger's website Articles covering leadership, strategy, and sales The Growth Leader Workbook as a companion to the book Importance of creating value in the sales experience Eliminating the need for pressuring customers for a close Focusing on delivering value and advocating for customers' objectives About Scott K. Edinger: Renowned business growth consultant Scott K. Edinger, in his latest book, "The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines," addresses the critical link between C-Suite strategy and sales force execution for sustainable business growth. Drawing on his extensive experience working with CEOs and Senior Leaders of Fortune 500 companies, Scott emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from mere sales transactions to creating enduring customer value. As he terms it, the key to achieving "graceful growth" is fostering effective communication between leadership and sales teams. By closing the gap between strategic vision and its implementation on the front lines, businesses can achieve a harmonious synergy that combines speed, power, and coordination. Scott's insights underscore that genuine and lasting growth is not solely a sales challenge but a leadership imperative for organizations aiming to thrive in today's competitive landscape. About Edinger Consulting: Edinger Consulting is a sought-after firm, attracting clients such as AT&T, Lenovo, McDonald's, and The Los Angeles Times, all driven by the desire for substantial growth. The consultancy, led by Scott K. Edinger, specializes in collaborating with senior leaders to formulate and implement strategies that yield enhanced top and bottom-line outcomes. Scott, a distinguished consultant, author, advisor, and speaker, is renowned for catalyzing positive transformations within client organizations. His expertise mainly centers on leadership strategies geared towards achieving revenue growth. Through strategic insight and practical execution, Edinger Consulting has established itself as a trusted partner for companies seeking to navigate the complexities of business expansion and achieve sustainable success in today's competitive market landscape. Tweetable Moments: 03:50 - "When all things look equal or similar, then it's the sales experience that can differentiate you and not enough executives put their focus on that or at least put enough focus on that." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Edinger Consulting website at https://www.juliankharris.co.uk/ Check out Edinger Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/edinger-consulting/ Check out Scott K. Edinger on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-edinger/ Check out Scott K. Edinger on Twitter at https://twitter.com/

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Julian Harris Services Limited, Julian Harris. Julian Harris, a seasoned leadership coach delved into the often overlooked challenges and isolation faced by leaders, particularly founders and CEOs. Julian shared his insights on the importance of having a mentor or sounding board to share concerns and seek guidance. With his extensive experience working with leaders, Julian emphasized the importance of having someone to talk to about these concerns. As a business grows, these two roles can become distinct, each with its responsibilities and challenges. Julian, leveraging his background as a former attorney, explained how he helps clients identify their passions and delegate tasks effectively, a crucial skill for both founders and CEOs. Without a sounding board, leaders can find themselves lost in their thoughts, leading to unclear decision-making. Julian's coaching approach focuses on helping clients find clarity, connect with their innate wisdom, and tap into their creativity. Julian also stressed the importance of self-care, comparing it to the safety briefing on an airplane, where you must put on your oxygen mask before helping others. Looking after oneself is crucial for effectively managing business and personal relationships. Key Points from the Episode: Challenges and isolation faced by leaders, particularly founders and CEOs Importance of having a sounding board or mentor for leaders Role of a founder versus a CEO Potential consequences of not having a mentor Pains and complaints that leaders often share with a coach Coaching philosophy and approach to helping clients find clarity and connect with their innate wisdom and creativity Importance of slowing down and taking time for reflection in decision-making Julian Harris' experience as a leadership coach and working with leaders who feel lonely and struggle to find someone to talk to Value of a decelerated day for deep thinking, self-reflection, and exploring important questions About Julian Harris: Julian Harris, founder of Julian Harris Services, is a seasoned commercial lawyer with a 20-year track record, having served notable brands like Nike, Twinings, Sports Direct, Asda, Manchester United, and Primark. His vision for making a substantial impact led him to establish his coaching venture, where he now specializes in working with business leaders aiming to change the world. Based in London, Julian seamlessly integrates his legal expertise with leadership coaching, helping clients on both sides of the Atlantic. With a passion for drawing out the untapped potential in individuals, he empowers business owners and leaders to become the best versions of themselves. Known for his attentiveness and thought-provoking questions, Julian facilitates clarity and confidence among his clients, even when they struggle to recognize their strengths. About Julian Harris Services Limited: Julian Harris Services, founded by Julian Harris, reflects his transformative journey from a legal career to coaching, driven by a desire to create a more profound impact on the world. Motivated by the brevity and preciousness of life, Julian aspires to leave a meaningful legacy by facilitating positive change. As a coach, he focuses on aiding individuals who share a vision of making a difference in the world, aligning their goals with his own aspiration to contribute to a better global future. With a commitment to helping others, Julian's coaching endeavors become a conduit for realizing his vision by empowering those who seek to bring about positive change, embodying the ethos that small actions can collectively make a significant impact on the world. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Julian Harris Services website at https://www.juliankharris.co.uk/ Check out Julian Harris Services on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/julian-harris-legacy-coach/ Check out Julian Harris on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliankharris/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Information Security Officer Co-Founder of SIE Monster, Chris Rock. Chris Rock is not your typical CSO. He's a hacker by trade with a dual role that involves finding system flaws and presenting them at conferences like Defcon. Simultaneously, he serves as the CEO of SIEMonster, which provides security services for large enterprises. His clients range from governments to private organizations, each with unique objectives and security needs. Chris shared some intriguing stories from his work. He's uncovered employees setting up illegal activities within companies, helped track people escaping authorities in the Middle East, and dealt with a myriad of other complex situations. These stories, while fascinating, also highlight the darker side of our increasingly digital world. When asked Chris if there was any hope for a safer digital world, his response was sobering. The flaws he identified years ago still exist today, and the transition from paper-based systems to electronic systems has only increased the potential for security breaches. He also recommended using account IDs and virtual credit cards instead of traditional credit card numbers to further enhance security. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Chris Rock as CSO of Sea Monster and cyber mercenary Chris's work as a hacker and consultant Clients and objectives of Chris's work Stories and insights into vulnerabilities of systems Need for increased security measures Use of tokens instead of passwords for account security Risks of using passwords and benefits of tokens Importance of VPNs for data protection Choosing a reliable VPN provider Importance of encryption and protecting personal information About Chris Rock: As the Chief Information Security Officer and co-founder of SIEMonster, Chris has traversed the cyber landscapes of the Middle East, the United States, and Asia, lending his expertise to governmental and private entities. Renowned for his presentations at DEFCON, the world's largest hacking conference in Las Vegas, Chris has delved into contentious vulnerabilities. His talks covered topics such as the potential manipulation of Birth and Death Registration systems, the collaboration of cyber mercenaries in government overthrows, and innovative methods of bypassing jammers by utilizing the Earth as an antenna. As a thought leader, he authored "Baby Harvest," a compelling exploration of criminals and terrorists exploiting virtual babies and fabricated deaths for financial gain. Notably, Rock has graced the TED Global stage, further solidifying his status as a cybersecurity luminary. About SIEMonster: SIEMonster, established in 2015, is an innovative and cost-effective Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) solution. Founded by experienced hackers Chris and Dez Rock, the platform emerged from a recognized gap in the SIEM market. With over 20 years of penetration testing and white-hat hacking expertise, the founders and their team crafted a scalable and customizable SIEM tool. SIEMonster's pricing model doesn't penalize based on Events Per Second (EPS), offering affordability and automatic scalability as clients expand. SIEMonster incorporates automated tasks and data enrichment, reducing the reliance on external security consultants. The vision, shared by Chris and Lead Solutions Designer Jim Bycroft, focuses on constant evolution and scalability, positioning SIEMonster as a leader in the dynamic cybersecurity landscape. The platform's commitment to forward-thinking security solutions makes it a formidable choice for organizations seeking robust defense against evolving threats. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out SIEMonster website at https://siemonster.com/ Check out SIEMonster on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/siemonster/ Check out SIEMonster on Twitter at https://twitter.com/_SIEMonster Check out Chris Rock on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-rock-siemonster/ Check out Chris Rock on Twitter at https://twitter.com/chrisrockhacker Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with CEO & Founder of Core Matters, Ryan Englin. Ryan emphasized the importance of having the right people on your team for business growth and success. He pointed out that the hiring environment has drastically changed due to the pandemic, with job seekers now having more options and seeking workplaces where they feel valued and belong. According to Ryan, entrepreneurs can attract and excite potential employees by offering them what they want. This includes a sense of belonging, meaningful work, and positive relationships with colleagues. Ryan advised entrepreneurs to focus on being attractive to the people they want to hire rather than solely relying on higher pay to attract employees. Understanding who the right fit is for your company and creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment are key factors in attracting and retaining top talent. Ryan cautioned against using the term "family" to describe the work environment but encouraged employers to adopt a supportive and caring approach towards their employees, just like a family would. Ryan emphasized the need to create a process that removes these biases, such as using job ads and interview questions that promote diversity. He cautioned against promoting diversity without addressing biases, as it can backfire. Key Points from the Episode: Challenges of hiring and attracting great employees in the current hiring environment Importance of having the right people on your team for business growth and success Changes in the hiring environment due to the pandemic Attracting and exciting potential employees by offering what they truly want Focusing on being attractive to the people you want to hire rather than relying solely on higher pay Understanding the right fit for your company and creating a supportive and enjoyable work environment Value of diversity in the workplace and addressing biases Economic argument for diversity and its benefits to a company Ryan's book "Hire Better People Faster" and its intended audience About Ryan Englin: Ryan Englin is a dedicated advocate for the success of growing businesses, particularly in blue-collar sectors. Motivated by his father's experiences as a tireless owner/operator, Ryan witnessed the challenges these industries face in recruiting quality frontline employees. Committed to finding a solution, he founded Core Matters, a company specializing in coaching and training to help businesses attract, hire, and retain top-tier employees. Through his renowned Core Fit Hiring System, Ryan empowers small and midsize businesses to streamline hiring processes and swiftly bring in exceptional talent. With nearly a decade of expertise, he has been instrumental in enabling business owners to achieve their goals by ensuring they assemble the right team. Ryan Englin's passion lies in transforming companies by connecting them with the best-fit employees for sustained success. About Core Matters: Core Matters specializes in assisting field service companies in attracting, recruiting, and retaining frontline talent, utilizing their tried-and-true methodology, the Core Fit Hiring System. The company is dedicated to enhancing the effectiveness of clients' recruiting endeavors, offering innovative and unconventional strategies to foster consistent growth for their businesses. Whether you're seeking to optimize your recruitment processes or develop unique approaches to talent acquisition, Core Matters is a reliable partner. With a focus on helping field service businesses thrive, Core Matters stands out as a valuable resource, providing tailored solutions to ensure sustained success in building and maintaining high-performing teams. Tweetable Moments: 4:01 - “You have to go where you know the fish are or the people, and you have to attract them to your business with the things that they are attracted by.” 4:05 - “If you're not attracting good people. Just consider that you may not be attractive to good people.” 4:58 - “If you want to be able to hire people and compete and still be profitable and not overpay, you've got to give them the things that people want.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Core Matters website at https://corematters.com/ Check out Core Matters on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/corematters/ Check out Core Matters on Twitter at https://twitter.com/corematters Check out Core Matters on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thecorematters Check out Ryan Englin on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanenglin/ Check out Rayan Englin’s New book "Hire Better People Faster" at https://www.amazon.com/Hire-Better-People-Faster-Attracting/dp/B0CHD4LZJZ/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booki

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief CEO & Co-founder of elai.io, Vitalii Romanchenko. Daniyal provided a fascinating overview of Elai. This innovative company helps businesses generate educational video content using deep text technology. With Elai, users can create a digital copy of themselves and generate professional video content without needing a camera, studio, or green screen. This technology has many applications, from social media to training and education. Daniyal explained that while the technology is still evolving, they've achieved impressive quality in creating digital humans. He also shared that these avatars will become more emotional, and gestures will be added in the future. Daniyal shared that Elai has over 1000 active customers, including enterprise companies like Generali and Insurancecom. These companies use Ligo to create training videos, with subscription plans varying depending on the specific use case. Key Points from the Episode: Elai helps businesses generate educational video content using deep text technology Elai's technology allows users to create professional video content without a camera, studio, or green screen The quality of Elai's videos and avoiding the uncanny valley effect Use cases for Elai, particularly for larger enterprise-level clients Elai's technology in the field of learning and development Ligo's language capabilities, including voice cloning and multilingual content generation Elai's recognition as the best-in-class video generator Free trial and self-serve platform for creating videos on Elai's website About Vitalii Romanchenko: Vitalii Romanchenko, the CEO and Co-founder of Elai.io boasts over a decade of expertise in Product and Project Management. With a robust background, he has steered software product development for globally renowned companies, showcasing his prowess in optimizing operations and generating substantial revenue. Romanchenko has honed his skills across diverse product landscapes, successfully launching new features and fostering the development of formidable teams. Transitioning from his accomplished career, he now spearheads Elai.io, a pioneering generative AI startup. Here, he focuses on revolutionizing content creation by enabling companies to generate video content effortlessly from textual inputs. Romanchenko's strategic vision and wealth of experience make him a trailblazer in the dynamic intersection of technology and content creation. About Elai: Elai.io is a cutting-edge deep-tech startup uniting a global team of AI enthusiasts driven by a user-centric and design-driven philosophy. Beyond its commitment to advanced AI technology, Elai.io embodies a tool designed to enhance lives, emphasizing the core values of time efficiency, product excellence, personalization, and integrity. Rooted in a customer-centric ethos, Elai.io prioritizes constantly improving its solutions, demonstrating an unwavering eagerness to assist its clientele. As dreamers propelled by user needs, the company's mission transcends mere technological innovation, seeking to seamlessly integrate advanced AI into everyday existence, making a tangible impact on the quality of life. Elai.io's dedication to these principles positions it as a forward-thinking force in the dynamic landscape of AI-driven solutions. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out elai website at https://elai.io/ Check out elai on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elai-io/ Check out elai on Twitter at https://twitter.com/elai__io Check out elai on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/elai.io Check out Vitalii Romanchenko on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vromanchenko/ Check out Vitalii Romanchenko on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/vitalii.romanchenko Check out Vitalii Romanchenko on Twitter at https://twitter.com/v__romanchenko Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to Chief Marketing Officer of Codment, Daniyal Vadsaria. Codment is not your typical software development company. They have a unique focus on the latest technologies like AR and VR, but what truly sets them apart is their commitment to creating a user-friendly experience. As Daniyal explained, their goal is not just to sell their services but to understand the needs of their customers and deliver exactly what is required. Their website is a testament to this approach. It's friendly, accessible, and radiates positivity, a refreshing change from the often dull and complex websites we see in the tech industry. But this isn't just about aesthetics. It's about creating a user-friendly journey that guides visitors to the necessary information, converting them into leads. Daniyal emphasized the importance of adaptability in this rapidly changing landscape. Technology and people's needs constantly evolve, and staying open-minded and not getting stuck in a narrow perspective is crucial. Daniyal shared an example of a recent project perfectly illustrating Codment's innovative approach. The project involved language learning through virtual reality. Users wear a headset and are immersed in different scenarios, such as interacting with a taxi driver in Arabic. This practical, immersive experience allows users to learn and practice the language in a way that traditional methods can't match. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Daniyal, Chief Marketing Officer for Codment Compliments on Codment's website design and focus on user-friendly experience Importance of user experience in web and mobile development Shift from web-first to mobile-first to user-first design Importance of adaptability in achieving success Daniel's approach to projects, including researching competition and understanding audience needs Example of a language learning project using virtual reality About Daniyal Vadsaria: Daniyal Vadsaria is an accomplished marketing professional with a decade of experience, currently serving as the Chief Marketing Officer at Codment, a pioneering development firm specializing in disruptive services across apps, websites, and other domains. In his role, Daniyal plays a pivotal part in shaping and executing the company's marketing strategy, focusing on driving revenue growth and bolstering the brand's market standing. Leading diverse teams encompassing brand advertising, PR, social media, sales, and digital strategy, Daniyal excels as a communicator and collaborator, ensuring seamless alignment of marketing efforts with overarching business objectives. His adept leadership has propelled Codment to substantial customer and revenue expansion, marked by successful marketing campaigns that facilitated entry into new markets and acquisition of a broader customer base. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Daniyal is passionate about sharing experiences and insights that positively influence others, offering valuable perspectives on realizing ideas in today's dynamic digital landscape. About Codment: Codment is a forward-thinking software development company, is at the forefront of shaping the digital landscape. Codment transforms ideas into scalable, user-friendly digital solutions that prioritize continuous improvement and revenue generation. The company's innovative approach extends across diverse domains, ensuring its solutions align with evolving technological trends. Codment's emphasis on staying ahead of the digital curve positions it as a dynamic player in the software development industry. By formulating cutting-edge solutions, the company not only meets but exceeds the expectations of clients, contributing to their success in an ever-evolving digital ecosystem. Codment's dedication to creating impactful and future-ready digital solutions establishes it as a reliable partner for businesses seeking to navigate and thrive in the rapidly changing technological landscape. Tweetable Moments: 6:09 - “Now is the time when you focus on user first, so it's more geared towards now the person instead of the device that they're using.” 7:12 - “Any design that you're creating should be very simple and should guide users exactly what needs to be done next, instead of them finding what needs to be done next.” 11:09 - “People needs changes, their focus changes. So you have to be adaptable. If you are stuck in a myopia, then you don't get to see what happens outside.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Codment website at https://codment.com/ Check out Codment on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/codment/ Check out Codment on Twitter at https://twitter.com/codment Check out Codment on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/codment/ Check out Daniyal Vadsaria on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniyal-vadsaria

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to Marketing Entrepreneur, Educator, & Author, Ben Guttmann. In a world filled with constant noise and messaging, Ben emphasized the importance of simplicity. He explained that effective messages are simple and easy to understand. Fluent messages that require less mental load tend to perform better in terms of trust, likability, and buying behavior. Ben mentioned Apple as a prime example when asked about brands that excel in simple messaging. Apple effectively communicates benefits rather than focusing on features, contrasting with Microsoft's struggles in marketing their Zune product. He also explored the power of simple messaging in branding and communication. Successful slogans like Apple's "A thousand songs in your pocket" and FedEx's "when it has to Be There Overnight" resonate with customers because they are concise, relatable, and empathetic. Ben shared a personal story about his dentist, who used a simple and relatable line, "You only have to floss the teeth you want to keep," which motivated him to start flossing regularly. This example highlights the power of empathy and direct communication in influencing behavior. Ben offers a wealth of resources on his website, including a weekly email newsletter with exciting ideas and downloads. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn. Ben is a wellspring of knowledge with his experience as a speaker, teaching marketing at Baruch College, and speaking at various meetups, corporations, non-profits, and conferences. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of simplicity in messaging and communication Five principles for achieving simplicity in design: benefit to the receiver, focus on one thing at a time, stand out from noise, empathy for the audience, minimalism Editing process and conveying the message immediately in book titles and covers Examples of brands with simple messaging: Apple vs Microsoft Power of simple and straightforward messaging in branding and communication Examples of successful slogans Application of simple messaging in personal relationships The target audience for the book "Simply Put": leaders, entrepreneurs, advocates, faith leaders Resources available on Ben's website: newsletter, downloads, LinkedIn connection About Ben Guttmann: Ben Guttmann is a seasoned marketing professional, educator, and author dedicated to unraveling the motivations behind human behavior. With a wealth of experience running a successful marketing agency, teaching at Baruch College, and collaborating with major brands, Guttmann emphasizes the power of simplicity in winning ideas. Founder of the award-winning marketing agency Digital Natives Group, Guttmann's journey began with local businesses. It evolved into partnerships with notable entities like the NFL, Comcast NBCUniversal, and The Nature Conservancy. In addition to teaching marketing to aspiring professionals at Baruch College since 2014, Guttmann has contributed to major publications like the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal. He's a sought-after speaker at conferences and events, having organized the successful Queens Tech Night meetup series. Beyond his professional endeavors, Guttmann has served on the boards of influential organizations such as the Long Island City Partnership and the Queens Economic Development Corporation. His commitment to exploring new ideas, advising clients, and blending technology with humanity defines his current focus. Guttmann's impactful career underscores the significance of clear and direct messaging in a distracted world. Tweetable Moments: 3:49 - “Marketing is actually kind of simple. We have the vessel and we have the content. The vessel is all that stuff.” 8:03 - “Nobody is reading your diet book and also knows what you had for breakfast that morning, but they'll read your book about communication and other.” 9:33 - “It's not about what the features are, it's about what the benefits are. The thousand songs in your pocket.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Ben Guttmann website at https://www.benguttmann.com/ Check out Ben Guttmann on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/benguttmann/ Check out Ben Guttmann on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ben.guttmann/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Digital Marketing Consultant, Founder & CMO of Mongoose Media, Lauren Petrullo. Lauren Petrullo is a seasoned marketing professional with a rich background that includes working at the Walt Disney Company. Her journey brought her to Orlando, where she founded Mongoose Media, a digital marketing agency specializing in SEO and Facebook ads. The agency works with individuals, brands, and companies across various industries, including e-commerce and hospitality, helping them increase their traffic and scale their businesses. According to Lauren, Pinterest is an underutilized channel offering a unique brand opportunity. With its large user base and longer life decay for posts, Pinterest attracts individuals not present on other social media platforms. Lauren shared that they have seen success with non-obvious brands on Pinterest, such as mechanics and education programs, which was a surprising revelation. One of the most insightful parts of the conversation was when Lauren shared the lessons she learned from Disney that she applied to her business. She emphasized the importance of the last impression, drawing parallels with the parking experience at Disney's Magic Kingdom. Lauren advises businesses to have a speed lead initiative and maintain touchpoints with leads to differentiate themselves from competitors. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Mongoose Media and its services Importance of diversifying traffic sources The potential of Pinterest as a marketing channel Trends in marketing Benefits of living and doing business in Central Florida The strategic location of Mongoose Media in Orlando Lessons learned from Disney and their application to business Importance of the last impression in capturing leads Advice on maintaining touchpoints with leads About Lauren Petrullo: Lauren Petrullo is a dynamic individual with a multifaceted identity as a wife, friend, sister, and devoted dog mom. Renowned as a "destruction queen" in digital marketing, Lauren boasts over ten years of experience, bringing forth her analytical prowess and creativity to breathe life into digital strategies. Having collaborated with Fortune 500 brands, she is recognized for her candid approach, fearlessly providing brutally honest assessments of existing assets. Lauren believes in the power of transparent conversations, asserting that genuine interactions pave the way for successful conversions. As part of Mongoose Media, Lauren navigates the challenges of the post-iOS era, tackling disruptions caused by Flock and iOS 15 in the advertising landscape. Lauren is driven to share love through time, resources, and more. Lauren Petrullo's journey is a testament to her commitment to reshaping outdated systems and ensuring marketing efforts lead to meaningful conversions. About Mongoose Media: Mongoose Media, headquartered in Orlando, FL, is a data-driven digital marketing agency specializing in global online customer acquisition for food and beauty brands. With a strategic focus on social media, the agency excels in brand building, leveraging platforms like Facebook, Google, and Pinterest to ensure effective conversion and long-term customer awareness. Distinguished as an agency partner with major platforms, including Facebook, Google, Snap, Pinterest, and Bing, Mongoose Media possesses a robust network. Additionally, the agency holds technology agency partnerships with Klaviyo, Shopify, and ManyChat, underscoring its commitment to cutting-edge tools and platforms. Through a comprehensive approach that spans social media presence, conversion optimization, and forward-thinking customer engagement, Mongoose Media stands out as a critical player in the dynamic landscape of digital marketing. Tweetable Moments: 6:30 - “If you're not on Pinterest and you're in the obvious category of DIY and beauty and food related stuff, you're missing out because your audience expects you there.” 9:35 - “If you can leverage in different tools so that what you're providing is layered in with data, which is layered in with human intervention, you can get a product that is likely going to be more IP protected.” 12:15 - “The last impression they have of you is that you're just another fill in the blank, because there was no touchpoint.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Mongoose Media at https://universalaccountingschool.com/ Check out Mongoose Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mongoosemedia/ Check out Mongoose Media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MongooseMediaLLC/ Check out Mongoose Media on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MongooseMediaUS Check out Mongoose Media on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mongoosemedia.us/ Check out Lauren Petrullo on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenpetrullo/ Check out Lauren Petrullo

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to Content Creator & Marketing Strategist of Universal Accounting Center, Roger Knecht. Universal Accounting Center, under the leadership of Roger Knecht, has been a beacon of support for accounting professionals since 1979. The center offers training and support for both budding and established accounting professionals. Their mission is to transform accountants into "accounting preneurs," equipping them with the entrepreneurial mindset and skills necessary to run a successful accounting business. The center recognizes that many accountants lack marketing, selling, and pricing training. To address this, they guide professionals to help navigate acquiring and retaining clients. Their approach is not just about crunching numbers; it's about empowering accountants to offer valuable advice and insights to their clients. One of the critical points Roger emphasized during our conversation was the importance of communication between accountants and business owners. He noted that there needs to be more clarity between what business owners expect from their accountants and what accountants provide. Universal Accounting Center aims to bridge this gap by giving accounting professionals a voice and encouraging them to offer valuable advice and insights to their clients. Roger also touched on industry trends, noting the increasing focus on cloud technology and the integration of AI interfaces within accounting platforms such as QuickBooks, Xero, and Sage. He emphasized that these tools are meant to assist accounting professionals in their work, not replace them. Key Points from the Episode: Universal Accounting Center: training and support for accounting professionals Goal: help accounting professionals become "accounting preneurs" Importance of communication between accountants and business owners Evolution of Universal Accounting Center from physical campuses to online platform Industry trends: focus on cloud technology and AI integration in accounting platforms AI tools in accounting: meant to assist, not replace professionals Core areas of focus for accounting professionals: bookkeeping and accounting, tax preparation and planning, CFO and advisory work Universal Accounting Center website, universalaccounting.com, offers free resources and courses About Roger Knecht: Roger Knecht is the esteemed president of Universal Accounting, a renowned institution providing comprehensive training, certifications, coaching, and support to over 40,000 accounting professionals since its establishment in 1979. With over two decades of experience, Roger has personally guided thousands of accounting professionals in initiating and expanding highly profitable businesses. His private firm has earned prestigious accolades, listed in the INC 500 and Utah 100. Additionally, Roger hosts the influential "Building the Premier Accounting Firm" podcast, where he has conducted insightful interviews with industry experts such as Joe Woodard, Mike Michalowicz, Scott Zarret, and John Warillow. Furthermore, he co-authors two essential guides for accountants: "Red to BLACK," a comprehensive how-to guide, and "In the BLACK," outlining nine principles to ensure business profitability. Roger Knecht's contributions have significantly impacted the accounting profession, making him a respected figure in the industry. About Universal Accounting Center: Since its establishment in 1979, Universal Accounting Center has been a leading institution specializing in transforming individuals into Profit Experts™ for their organizations. The center offers a range of accounting-based products and services, crafting powerful training materials for accounting, bookkeeping, and tax preparation professionals. Their flagship programs, including the Professional Bookkeeper Program, Professional Tax Preparer Program, and Quickbooks setup and support programs, equip students with essential skills. Universal Accounting provides a comprehensive learning experience through seminars, interactive tutorial software, training guides, personal coaching, and pre-packaged marketing programs. Students receive proven business models, enabling them to start their ventures or enhance their existing businesses for financial security and profitability. The founder and CEO, Allen Bostrom, a respected author of business books like "In the Black" and "Red to Black in 30 Days," is also a sought-after speaker at industry and business events. Universal Accounting Center's dedication to empowering professionals has established it as a reputable institution in the accounting industry. Tweetable Moments: 3:04 - “It's almost like a don't ask, don't tell philosophy. I'll provide you the financials and if you've got questions, ask me and I'll tell you a few things.” 9:24 - “ Learn the prompts, ask questions, engage with AI and see what insights you could gain from the interface.” Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entr

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Entrepreneurial Patent Attorney, Author & Speaker of Modern Thompson Patent Law, Craige Thompson. Craige's journey into the world of patent law is a fascinating one. He grew up working for his entrepreneur father, which sparked his passion for business. After a decade-long career in electrical engineering, he transitioned to patent law. Over the past 24 years, he has worked with individuals and companies of all sizes, including tech giants like Apple, Google, Intel, and Honeywell. His mission is to protect entrepreneurs from financial ruin, a lesson he learned from witnessing his father's business collapse due to changes in government regulations. Craige explained that intellectual property falls into four categories: trade secrets, patents, trademarks, and copyrights. His expertise lies in patents and trade secrets, where he assists technology companies in safeguarding their innovative products and services from copycats and infringers. Craige emphasized the importance of protecting your brand reputation and trademarks. He explained that a strong brand reputation leads to a certain level of quality associated with your trademark. However, some copycats try to trick people by using similar trademarks, thereby cheapening your brand. He stressed the need to act if someone misuses your trademark. Craige also highlighted the value of intellectual property as a business asset. He explained that patents can be bought, sold, rented, used as collateral, or enforced against others. By securing your intellectual property, you increase the valuation of your company, whether you're looking to exit, scale, or create additional income through licensing deals. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Craige Thompson as a patent attorney and founder of Thompson Patent Law and Invention to Exit Craige's background and experience in working with individuals and companies of all sizes Explanation of the four areas of intellectual property: trade secrets, patents, trademarks, and copyrights Importance of seeking assistance from an attorney in the process of protecting intellectual property Discussion on protecting brand reputation and trademarks from copycats and improper use The suggestion of exploring business solutions rather than immediate litigation in resolving trademark disputes Highlighting the value of intellectual property as a business asset and its various uses Recommendation of Thompson Patent Law's lightning prior art search for determining patentability Emphasis on the importance of protecting intellectual property throughout the podcast About Craige Thompson: Craige Thompson is an accomplished professional with a mission to support creative problem solvers and enhance the impact of patented innovations. Transitioning from electrical engineering to patent law at the world's leading patent firm in the early 2000s, he has focused on maximizing the value of businesses through integrated processes involving intellectual property (IP), operations, and marketing expertise. With over 30 years of A-level engineering and patent experience, Thompson excels in solving complex technical, legal, and business challenges. His proprietary system, "LITIGATION QUALITY PATENT" (R), reflects his commitment to engineering patents as valuable business assets that generate substantial profits. Craige's team specializes in offensive and defensive patent protection and provides litigation-quality solutions to safeguard market share and defend against patent infringement. His technical expertise spans diverse areas such as analog circuits, power electronics, embedded systems, medical devices, and more. Craige's innovative contributions aim to protect and leverage patents for increased business profitability. About Modern Thompson Patent Law: Thompson Patent Law specializes in creating patents that hold substantial value and withstand legal scrutiny. Positioned as the home of the Litigation Quality Patent, their approach emphasizes generating faster revenue by ensuring patents command respect rather than being easily dismissed. The firm, a boutique comprised of attorneys with extensive experience as Electrical Engineers, uniquely "Speaks Fluent Engineer," facilitating efficient communication with inventor-engineers. With a focus on delivering high-value, litigation-quality patents, Thompson Patent Law has a proven track record working with major clients like Apple, Google, Intel, and Microsoft, as well as smaller businesses and startups. The firm's commitment to doing things "the right way" aligns with the author's book, "Patent Offense," offering insights into a re-engineered, faster path for obtaining higher quality, more cost-effective patents. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Thompson Patent Law website at https://thompsonpatentlaw.com/ Check out Thompson Patent Law on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/compan

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner & Founder of Thrive On Purpose, Lani Dickinson. Lani Dickinson is a business mentor who works with early seven-figure entrepreneurs and multi-seven-figure earners. Her mission is to help these entrepreneurs professionalize their management, create systems that generate predictable revenue, and prepare for a potential exit. This allows them to enjoy time and location freedom without the risk of burning out. Lani shed light on the common pain points that early seven-figure entrepreneurs often face. One of the most prevalent issues is the tendency to take on too much of themselves, which often stems from an inability to afford a team. Lonnie emphasizes the importance of creating cash flow and building a monthly recurring revenue stream to multiply the business's revenue. Another common struggle is the difficulty in delegating critical tasks to others. Many entrepreneurs at this stage have an identity tied to their work, making it challenging to let go and trust others with crucial aspects of their business. Lani also addressed the cash concerns of early seven-figure companies. She explained that growth and scaling require cash, and the post-COVID labor shortages and increased wages have only added to these financial challenges. Moreover, she pointed out that entrepreneurs often lack efficient delivery systems and haven't identified the exact value points that drive customer satisfaction and loyalty. This lack of clarity can lead to inefficiencies and missed growth opportunities. Key Points from the Episode: Lani Dickinson's work as a business mentor for early seven-figure entrepreneurs and multi-seven figure earners Common pain points for entrepreneurs, such as the need for a team and cash flow concerns The process of professionalizing management and preparing for a potential exit The importance of creating cash flow and building a monthly recurring revenue stream Challenges faced by early seven-figure entrepreneurs, including trying to do too much themselves and struggling with delegating tasks Cash concerns for early seven-figure companies, including post-COVID labor shortages and increased wages The importance of having a clear vision for one's life, loves, legacy, and impact Making difficult decisions and navigating necessary changes in businesses Attaching a cost to desires and understanding the sacrifices and investments needed to achieve them About Lani Dickinson: Lani Dickinson's journey is nothing short of inspirational. Starting with a challenging childhood, where her mother was involved in drugs, Lani became a mother at 18 and dropped out of school. However, she turned her life around by obtaining a GED and pursuing higher education. Her determination led her to become a nurse, and she didn't stop there; she earned an MBA and successfully built two side businesses into multi-six-figure ventures. Her corporate career is equally remarkable. Lani became the CEO of a Fortune 175 company, a position held by less than 5% of women. After 25 years in the corporate world, she left her CEO role as her business approached the seven-figure mark in under a year. Now, as a business mentor and strategist, Lani dedicates herself to helping entrepreneurs, particularly those transitioning from corporate careers. She emphasizes embedding essential systems into businesses to achieve sustainable success, minus the bureaucracy. Her approach aims at helping her clients gain true time freedom, increase profits, and create a business that operates independently. Lani's philosophy combines her corporate experience with an entrepreneurial spirit, emphasizing the importance of team-building, data-driven decision-making, and financial management. About Thrive On Purpose: Thrive on Purpose is an empowering program for women entrepreneurs running service-based businesses. The core mission is to enable these women to achieve independence from traditional corporate structures and the constraints of conventional employment. A key aspect of Thrive on Purpose is the dual emphasis on achieving time and financial freedom. This approach ensures participants can build sustainable, profitable businesses without sacrificing important life moments or personal commitments. Furthermore, the program stresses the importance of making a significant impact through their businesses, aligning personal values with professional goals. By participating in "Thrive on Purpose," women entrepreneurs have the tools and knowledge to create generational wealth. This concept extends the benefits of their success beyond their immediate needs to future generations. The program is about more than just business growth; it's about creating a fulfilling, autonomous lifestyle that resonates with personal and professional aspirations. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Thrive on Purpose website at http://www.meetlani.com/ Check out Thrive on Pur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Executive Officer & Chief Founder of Opal Labs Inc, George Huff. Opal is a company that has carved a niche for itself by aligning marketing organizations with varying levels of complexity. Their mission is to help brands reinforce their products and services in the market by solving the challenges of complexity and hierarchy within organizations. George explained that Opal was born out of the need to manage the explosion of content across channels. He observed the difficulties that large brands faced in coordinating and aligning their content creation efforts, especially within organizations with hierarchies and silos. This inspired him to start a software company that could solve this problem. Opal began its journey in 2012, working with brands like Nike, Beats by Dre, and the Seattle Seahawks. George explained that organizations often have different teams responsible for creating content for various channels. This can lead to duplication of efforts and inconsistency in messaging. Opal helps organizations overcome these challenges by providing a platform that connects strategy and execution. It allows content planning, project management, creation, and visualizing content across different channels. The platform also helps organizations analyze their content saturation and make adjustments before publishing. Key Points from the Episode: Opal: a company aligning marketing organizations with complexity Opal's goal: help brands reinforce products/services in the market Opal trusted by leading brands like Starbucks, Wendy's, Whole Foods, GM, and Target Opal started in response to content explosion across channels Challenges of coordinating and aligning content creation efforts Opal's platform connects strategy and execution for content planning and management Opal helps analyze content saturation and make adjustments before publishing Opal's position on AI and the need for a steering committee Opal's suitability for teams with 20 or more marketers About George Huff: George Huff is a tech-savvy entrepreneur passionate about the intersection of business, technology, and design. His career began in web design, showcasing an early affinity for the digital world. This initial experience paved the way for further entrepreneurial endeavors. George’s career trajectory has been marked by a series of co-founding roles in various companies, indicating his strong drive and ability to recognize and cultivate business opportunities. A key aspect of his success appears to be his talent for team-building, ensuring he is surrounded by individuals who excel in their respective areas. This strategic approach to collaboration has likely played a significant role in the success and rewards reaped by his ventures. George’s story reflects an individual with a clear vision, the ability to adapt and grow, and a knack for fostering effective teams. About Opal Labs Inc: Opal Labs offers a comprehensive planning platform specifically designed for marketers, streamlining the process of planning, creating, and calendaring content. This platform is particularly valuable for marketing and communications teams, as it fosters high alignment within teams. By using Opal, these teams can operate with greater efficiency and coordination. A standout feature of Opal is its customer-centric approach, enabling users to view and understand their work from the perspective of their customers. This aspect is crucial in crafting effective marketing strategies and content that resonate with the target audience. Opal’s platform appears well-regarded in the industry, trusted by teams for its ability to simplify complex marketing processes and enhance collaborative efforts, thereby improving marketing campaigns' overall quality and impact. The platform is a testament to the importance of understanding and engaging with customers in the digital marketing landscape. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Opal Labs Inc website at https://workwithopal.com/ Check out Opal Labs Inc on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/opal-software/ Check out Opal Labs Inc on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/opal/ Check out Opal Labs Inc on Twitter at https://twitter.com/workwithopal?lang=en Check out George Huff on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgehuff/ Check out George Huff on Twitter at https://twitter.com/georgehuff Check out George Huff on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/georgehuff/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Motiv, David Ewing. David introduced the philosophy of Motiv, a company that provides businesses with the tools, technology, and processes to create exceptional customer experiences. The goal is to acquire customers and retain them, maximizing their lifetime value and generating positive word-of-mouth. David cited examples of unintuitive and frustrating interactions, suggesting that some companies might intentionally create a bad experience to discourage customers. He defined customer experience as the journey a customer goes through, from first hearing about a company to eventually ending their relationship. David emphasized the significance of 'moments that matter' - positive or negative experiences that shape a customer's attitude and behavior towards a brand. He shared a personal example of a joyous moment that mattered to him when an airline delay allowed him to meet an author he admired. He also mentioned a heartwarming story of a company sending flowers to a customer whose dog had passed away, creating a lasting impression. These moments, he stressed, are crucial in building long-term customer loyalty. David also highlighted the significance of having difficult conversations with customers, as it allows them to feel heard and often leads to more business. David G encourages entrepreneurs to pick up the phone and address any issues directly with customers, as it is unlikely that customers will switch to the competition just because their concerns are brought to light. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of customer experience in business Motiv's goal of providing tools and processes for exceptional customer experiences Acquiring and retaining customers for maximum lifetime value and positive word-of-mouth Small and medium-sized businesses struggling with user experience Intentional creation of bad experiences by some companies Definition of customer experience as the entire customer journey Significance of moments that matter in shaping customer attitudes and behavior Gathering feedback from customers and being open to criticism Having difficult conversations with customers to address issues About David Ewing: David Ewing's career is a rich tapestry of roles that showcase his adaptability and leadership in various sectors. His tenure as the CEO of Motiv, starting February 2001, stands out as a period where he steered the company with a visionary approach. Before this, David honed his business development and strategic planning skills as the Director of Business Development at Appareon from June 2000 to February 2001. Here, he was instrumental in shaping the company's growth strategies. One of David's earlier notable positions was as the Director of the Continuous Improvement Team at NSS Technologies, where he worked from June 1994 to August 1997. David led efforts to enhance machine efficiency, increase throughput, and implement cost-reduction strategies in this capacity. His leadership in this role was pivotal in improving the company's operational processes and overall performance. David has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt to different roles and industries throughout his career. His journey reflects a depth of experience in leading companies and fostering growth, implementing strategic initiatives, and driving continuous improvement. David's professional story is consistent growth, learning, and adaptation, making him a valuable asset in any business context. About Motiv: Motiv is a company centered on the principle that great achievements originate from individuals with the courage to advocate for change. Specializing in enhancing customer experiences, Motiv primarily serves clients eager to take strategic risks to improve customer interactions, viewing these improvements as valuable investments. Motiv’s expertise lies in implementing products from the Oracle Customer Experience suite. When clients engage Motiv, they entrust the company as a catalyst for positive change, helping them achieve their goals. This responsibility is seen by Motiv as a 'sacred challenge', committing to being a proactive force for each client. The company culture at Motiv emphasizes individual responsibility and collective commitment. Every team member at Motiv adopts the mantra, "I am Motiv," signifying a personal dedication to driving change and improving the world, one customer experience at a time. Tweetable Moments: 12:21 - "There is absolutely no substitute for having that difficult conversation with a customer because the catharsis of them just knowing that they've been heard almost always results in more business." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Motiv website at https://www.motivcx.com/home.html Check out Motiv on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/motivcx/ Check out David Ewing on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgewing/ Check out David Ewing on Twitter

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & Co-Founder of GoAvance, Ramiro Velasco. Ramiro kicked off our conversation by highlighting the current buzz around Latin America. With nearly 700 million potential customers being digitized daily, the region presents many opportunities for businesses in terms of insourcing, outsourcing, and shipping. The growing e-commerce market in Latin America is a goldmine waiting to be tapped, and GoAvance is at the forefront of this revolution. Many brands have started looking to Mexico as a reliable partner for manufacturing, with shorter lead times and comparable freight costs. The rise of remote work has resulted in a Mexican workforce joining US-based companies, thereby increasing the purchasing power of the middle class. Ramiro predicts a gold rush in Latin America over the next five to ten years, as brands explore the market and take advantage of the flow of capital, information, and infrastructure. GoAvance is playing a crucial role in this by assisting brands in establishing a strong presence in Mexico. Ramiro emphasized the importance of win-win situations and believes that a good system should work even when people are not motivated to work. The readiness for GoAvance' services varies depending on the market, competition, and price points. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Ramiro Velasco Romero, co-founder of GoVans Opportunities for businesses in Latin America in terms of insourcing, outsourcing, and shipping Growing e-commerce market in Latin America with potential customers being digitized GoAvance aims to make it easier for brands to sell in Mexico and overcome roadblocks Shift from doing business in China to near-shoring in Latin America Disruption of supply chains during the pandemic led to reevaluation of practices Rise of remote work and Mexican workforce joining US-based companies Predicted gold rush in Latin America in the next five to ten years GoVans offers services such as importing, logistics, and market management About Ramiro Velasco: Ramiro Velasco, an engineer and entrepreneur, co-founded an e-commerce company focused on bridging the consumer goods gap in Mexico and Latin America. Recognizing these regions as secondary markets, Ramiro applied his e-commerce expertise to make global products accessible. Initially adopting traditional methods like drop-shipping, he soon pivoted towards a more innovative model. His company evolved into an e-commerce enablement platform, serving as a proxy seller for foreign brands. This role involves importing products, marketing, and ensuring a high-quality consumer experience. Ramiro's dedication is evident in his company's promise to sell products within 30 days of contract signing, showcasing efficiency and commitment to market equality. His journey reflects a blend of problem-solving, determination, and a passion for leveling the field in global market access. Ramiros's ongoing work challenges the norm, positioning Mexican and Latin American consumers prominently in the worldwide consumer goods arena. About GoAvance: GoAvance is a digital-first company specializing in aiding brands to penetrate the Latin American market successfully. The company's core focus lies in strategizing marketplace entry, localizing brands, and creating smooth workflows, offering comprehensive solutions for businesses looking to expand into new territories. GoAvance's team comprises seasoned professionals in branding, logistics, and digital marketing, all boasting significant expertise in the Latin American landscape. They stay abreast of evolving trends and best practices, applying this knowledge to foster client success. Understanding the challenges of entering new markets, GoAvance has developed an efficient process that handles everything from logistical complexities to executing potent PPC campaigns. The company's commitment to alleviating the burdens of market expansion for its clients is a testament to its passion for consumer engagement and dedication to contributing to its clients' triumphs in Latin America. Tweetable Moments: 10:50 - "After you're an agency for that long, you're just trying to make win-wins, man. Like, you don't want people mad at you." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out GoAvance website at https://goavance.com/ Check out GoAvance on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/goavance/ Check out GoAvance on Instagram at https://instagram.com/go.avance Check out GoAvance on Facebook at https://facebook.com/goavance Check out GoAvance on Twitter at https://twitter.com/gogoavance Check out Ramiro Velasco on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramiro-velasco-mesina-a96bb8143/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of AMP Solutions LLC, Lisa Thee. Lisa's passion for applying artificial intelligence responsibly has been evident since 2015. She has been instrumental in using AI in areas like personalized medicine and combating human trafficking. Minor Guard's company integrates a solution to help parents control illegal content on their children's devices, showcasing her commitment to using AI for societal good. As the managing director of AI at Launch Consulting, Lisa focuses on the ethical landscape of AI. She believes that while we have made progress in AI, we are still in the early stages and have yet to see its full potential. Lisa is optimistic about the future, stating that AI is growing exponentially and will continue to evolve with more real-time use cases and democratized access to AI models. During the pandemic, Lisa wrote her book, "Go Reboot Your Career in 90 Days," to provide a roadmap for people who need to reinvent themselves. She wanted to be a beacon of hope for women in technology who are working parents, offering them guidance and inspiration. Lisa emphasized the importance of getting clear on what motivates and energizes oneself, as well as understanding strengths and preferences. This self-awareness can guide decisions about career direction, including whether to start a business or pursue opportunities within existing companies. Lisa encourages individuals to advocate for themselves and articulate their unique value proposition, contributing to the growth and success of their organizations. Key Points from the Episode: Lisa's work in AI and its impact on society Lisa's book "Go Reboot Your Career in 90 Days" Lisa's journey from a corporate career to launching her own company Lisa's role as the managing director of AI at Launch Consulting The ethical landscape of AI The current state of AI and its potential Making a career change and navigating the process Transitioning careers and finding meaning and fulfillment Self-awareness and understanding strengths and preferences Advocating for oneself and articulating unique value proposition About Lisa Thee: Lisa Thee is a globally recognized thought leader in AI, privacy, cybersecurity, health, and safety. With a track record in resolving intricate business technology challenges, she serves as CEO and Co-Founder of Minor Guard, an AI-focused company enhancing online and real-life safety. Her influence extends to consulting for prominent healthcare and technology firms like Microsoft and UCSF's Center for Digital Healthcare Innovation, expediting AI's FDA approval for clinical settings. As a keynote speaker and TEDx presenter ("Bringing Light To Dark Places Online: Disrupting Human Trafficking Using AI"), she educates on AI's societal benefits. Lisa hosts the acclaimed Navigating Forward podcast and is a published author in Fast Company Press. She holds advisory roles in various tech enterprises, advocating for AI ethics, Diversity, & Inclusion and serving on boards like Humaxa and 3 Strands Global Foundation, focused on human trafficking prevention. Lisa's impactful career spans 19 years, notably leading initiatives with Intel to combat child exploitation, reducing response times from 30 days to 24 hours. Armed with a Bachelor's in Industrial and Operations Management Engineering and PMP certification, Lisa Thee remains an influential force shaping AI ethics and technological innovation. About AMP Solutions LLC: AMP Solutions is a pioneering venture led by Lisa Thee, focusing on leveraging cutting-edge technology to safeguard vulnerable communities and drive impactful initiatives while ensuring revenue growth. With strategic collaborations involving industry giants such as Intel, Google, Microsoft, Thorn, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, AMP Solutions showcases a history of successful partnerships. Lisa adeptly connects mission-driven organizations with vital resources, advisors, and partners, enabling rapid and profitable scalability. Tweetable Moments: 16:14 - "Whatever makes you feel like you're spending 80% of your day doing something that energizes you and not 50% of your day just fitting in, that is when you really unlock your leadership and your power." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out AMP Solutions LLC website at https://lisathee.com/ Check out AMP Solutions LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/amp-solutions-llc/ Check out Lisa Thee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisathee/ Check out Lisa Thee on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/lisa.thee.polvi Check out Lisa Thee on Twitter at https://twitter.com/lisa_thee Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level i

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Professional EOS Implementer®, Business Owner & Business Coach of EOS Worldwide, Scott Goodrich. Scott Goodrich is no stranger to the world of business. His journey has seen him wear many hats - from being a W-2 employee leading teams across various industries, coaching leaders to enhance performance, and even owning a business himself. His diverse experience has equipped him with a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Scott's current role as an EOS implementer involves helping entrepreneurs execute their business ideas and align their teams towards a shared vision. He quickly clarified that EOS is not software but a framework focusing on vision, execution, and team health. Most of Scott's clients are businesses that have hit a growth ceiling and are seeking ways to expand. He emphasized the importance of being in the right frame of mind and being open to change to reap the benefits of implementing EOS. Scott shared a personal example of how EOS transformed his own business. Initially, his company struggled due to a lack of support from a franchise. However, implementing EOS helped them overcome these challenges and navigate through the difficulties brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. He also highlighted the importance of aligning employees with core values. According to Scott, many business problems are people-related, and having the right people in the right seats is crucial for success. Key Points from the Episode: Scott Goodrich's background and experience as an EOS implementer The impact of implementing EOS on businesses EOS as a framework focused on vision, execution, and team health The importance of being open to change and having the right mindset for implementing EOS Scott's personal example of how EOS transformed his own business Challenges faced by Scott's business during the pandemic and the need to adapt The importance of core values and aligning employees with those values Scott's podcast "Grow Your Damn Business" and its focus on entrepreneurs and business owners About Scott Goodrich: Scott Goodrich is a seasoned entrepreneur and EOS Implementer®, renowned for his expertise in guiding businesses towards success. With a diverse background spanning various roles across different organizations, Goodrich's passion for fostering growth and aiding individuals in achieving their objectives has been a consistent driving force. His entrepreneurial journey began in his youth, establishing a lawn-mowing service and initiating door-to-door sales programs, showcasing an early knack for business ventures. Transitioning into sales and operational leadership post-graduation, he gained substantial insights into organizational dynamics. Acquiring a small business six years ago further fortified his understanding, despite encountering formidable challenges. This experience intensified his commitment to imparting wisdom and supporting others in their pursuit of success. His approach centers on equipping businesses with simple yet effective tools to preempt issues, optimize team structures, and align the workforce towards common objectives. Goodrich's expertise, backed by real-world experiences, proves instrumental in facilitating business improvement and enhancing personal fulfillment. About EOS Worldwide: EOS Worldwide is not a computer operating system but a revolutionary Entrepreneurial Operating System benefiting tens of thousands of business leaders managing companies with 10 to 250 employees. It functions as a people operating system, utilizing straightforward tools and principles to optimize human energy and drive business growth while fostering work-life balance. This system liberates entrepreneurs from feeling overwhelmed by streamlining daily challenges into manageable tasks, preempting issues before they escalate, ensuring optimal team placement, and revolutionizing meeting productivity. By aligning everyone towards unified objectives, EOS cultivates smoother business operations, increases profitability, and facilitates sustained growth, enhancing overall life satisfaction. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out EOS Worldwide website at https://www.eosworldwide.com/ Check out EOS Worldwide on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/eos-worldwide-llc/ Check out EOS Worldwide on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EOSWorldwide Check out EOS Worldwide on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/entrepreneurialoperatingsystem/ Check out EOS Worldwide on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/eosworldwide/ Check out Scott Goodrich on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicazoraida/ Check out Scott Goodrich on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089920855059 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Entrepreneur, Speaker, Angel Investor & Chief Executive Officer of Big Picture Results, Jessica Zoraida. Jessica explained that Big Picture Results is a services-based business that aims to meet the unmet needs of small business owners. They provide a holistic approach to strategic goal setting, financial infrastructure, and business protection. Their services include CFO and COO support, HR compliance, and operational consulting. Jessica emphasized that while many businesses have accountants and bookkeepers, these professionals often work independently and may need to speak a different language. Big Picture Results aims to bridge that gap by providing comprehensive advisory services that help businesses interpret financial data and make informed decisions. Jessica stressed that it's never too early for startups to work with advisory services. This proactive approach sets them up for financial success and helps them understand the drivers of their business. During the initial sales call, she emphasized the importance of finding a match between the company and the client. The goal is to work with people who are aligned with the nature of their work and are open to making improvements and striving for excellence. Jessica clarified that their role is not to take away jobs but to improve the client's function and productivity. Their motto is to enable business owners to do more in less time, allowing them to focus on the business. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jessica Zoraida and her role as CEO of Big Picture Results Explanation of the services offered by Big Picture Results (accounting, tax, and advisory services) Importance of advisory services for businesses and when to consider them Benefits of fractional or outsourced advisory services "Land and expand" approach of Big Picture Results in providing services Matching clients with the company's values and goals during the initial sales call Understanding client goals and identifying areas for improvement Conducting conversations in a language and pace comfortable for the client Division of tasks based on priority and timeline About Jessica Zoraida: Jessica Zoraida, CEO of Big Picture Results, is a seasoned Latina entrepreneur with 25+ years of navigating corporate, nonprofit, and small business sectors. Leading a skilled team, Jessica specializes in empowering marginalized populations, especially women, by simplifying financial, HR, leadership, and marketing issues. Her expertise extends to employment, mentorship, and community service, fostering clarity and success. Despite a challenging start in the Bronx, Jessica, a first-generation college graduate, carved a remarkable career in corporate banking. Over 15 years as an entrepreneur, she became a subject matter expert and investor in majority-owned companies. Beyond her professional achievements, Jessica, an energetic and spirited individual, enjoys sharing strategies for success and a fulfilling life. As an avid traveler, adventurer, and advocate for work-life balance, she emphasizes holistic well-being, including healthy cooking, Tabata workouts, and quality sleep. About Big Picture Results: Big Picture Results Inc. is an Accounting and Tax Company focused on enhancing their clients' business profitability. Their commitment to streamlined processes, systems, and strategic approaches enables them to create substantial value for their clients. With a team boasting decades of expertise, they offer professional, proactive, and cost-effective services comparable to a full-time hire. Unlike traditional accounting firms, BPR doesn't just focus on year-end tax preparation; they tailor their services to meet specific industry and management needs, providing real-time insights to business owners. This empowers entrepreneurs to grasp their financials better and drive higher profits. Beyond accounting, BPR assists in restructuring and optimizing operations, from strategy development to standard operating procedures. Taking charge of these essential aspects enables business owners to focus on growing their organizations without getting bogged down by administrative tasks. Tweetable Moments: 12:09 - "Your wiggles and nervousness, that's going to catch up with you. Just marry that with a big dose of courage." 16:55 - "You can bootstrap your business but we all know capital is the lifeblood of any organization and the more well capitalized you are you're going to have a runway to really allow yourself to take off." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Big Picture Results website at https://www.bigpicresults.com/ Check out Big Picture Results on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BigPictureResults/ Check out Big Picture Results on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-picture-results/ C

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Strategic Thinking Institute, Rich Horwath. Rich Horwath's Strategic Thinking Institute is a beacon for senior leaders who aspire to think, plan, and act strategically daily. The institute's primary focus is to help these leaders establish a cohesive strategic direction. Rich emphasizes the importance of a strategy scaffold, which comprises three elements: purpose (mission, vision, values), business model, and plan (goals, objectives, strategies). Rich provided valuable insights on how leaders can determine whether they are on track with their strategy. He stressed the importance of understanding one's position in the market and tailoring strategies accordingly. He drew a clear distinction between market leaders, who aim to defend their position and attract new customers, and challengers, who focus on converting new users and capitalizing on the weaknesses of more prominent competitors. Rich also discussed his approach to strategic coaching and his newest book, "Strategic: The Skill to Set Direction, Create Advantage, and Achieve Executive Excellence." He emphasized the importance of customizing strategic tools for each team or business based on their specific needs and goals. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Rich Horwath and the Strategic Thinking Institute Importance of cohesive strategic direction Elements of a strategy scaffold: purpose, business model, and plan Identifying if leaders are off track or on track with their strategy Different strategies for market leaders and challengers Organizational resistance and the need for employee buy-in Concept of organizational flow and breaking down silos Key message for leaders: setting strategic direction Customizing strategic tools for specific needs and goals Importance of ongoing strategic development and individual coaching Rich's books: "Strategy Man" and "Strategic" About Rich Horwath: Rich Horwath, CEO of the Strategic Thinking Institute, is a renowned strategy facilitator, advisor, and coach. As a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, his latest book, "STRATEGIC," delves into setting direction, creating advantage, and achieving executive excellence. Over two decades, he's aided over a quarter million leaders in honing their strategic thinking. A former Chief Strategy Officer and strategy professor, Rich has graced ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX TV. Having crafted 700+ proprietary resources on strategic thinking, he's consulted for significant entities like ESPN, Google, and FedEx. His expertise has earned him acclaim, with Chief Executive Magazine dubbing him the "world's foremost expert on strategic thinking." Featured in Fast Company, Forbes, and the Harvard Business Review, Rich Horwath's vision is to teach the art of being strategic globally. About Strategic Thinking Institute: The Strategic Thinking Institute, led by President and CEO Rich Horwath, is committed to enhancing strategic thinking skills across managerial levels. Their focus is on fostering profit growth, productivity increases, and the establishment of competitive advantages. With a global reach, STI collaborates with top-tier companies in the U.S., Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region to cultivate strategic thinking, formulate plans, and set direction. STI offers a comprehensive range of services, including strategy consulting, training, keynote speeches, and counsel. The institute has empowered over 50,000 managers worldwide to bolster their strategic thinking capabilities. Through their strategic initiatives, STI plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational success on an international scale. Tweetable Moments: 08:55 - "The number one role of a leader is setting strategic direction. If you want to set good direction as a leader, all you have to remember are three A's: acumen, allocation, and action." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Strategic Thinking Institute website at https://www.strategyskills.com/ Check out Strategic Thinking Institute on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-thinking-institute/ Check out Rich Horwath on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richhorwath/ Check out Rich Horwath on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/richhorwathceo/ Check out Rich Horwath on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RichHorwath Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder, Strategist & Creative Director of Sealevel Agency, Allison Conway. Allison emphasized the importance of creating bold and human brands, even in the financial services and supply chain industries. Allison explained that many businesses in these industries hesitate to step outside the "buttoned-up" image they believe they should portray. However, she argues that by telling stories and humanizing their brand, they can connect with their customers on a deeper level. Allison points out that all business is human-to-human, and consumers now expect brands to reflect this in their branding. B2B marketing, in particular, is highly emotional, as clients often share their business challenges and anxieties. When asked about resources or recommendations for those interested in making changes and diving into their communities, Alison suggested following her on LinkedIn, where she regularly posts valuable content. Additionally, she offers a guide called "The Guinness Treatment" on her website, which provides insights on giving your business the same level of brand management as Guinness, a company known for its strong community involvement. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of creating bold and human brands in traditionally "boring" industries Telling stories and humanizing brands to connect with customers on a deeper level Example of Guinness Storehouse's storytelling and community connection Focus on providing emotional safety in financial services industry Understanding the emotional needs of customers and tailoring branding accordingly All business is human-to-human, even in B2B marketing Importance of understanding and being a part of the community you serve Immersing yourself in the community to better understand their needs About Allison Conway: A seasoned adventurer and accomplished author, Allison Conway boasts a rich tapestry of global experiences, having explored over 40 countries. Her travel highlights range from savoring Jordan's culinary delights to immersing herself in Egypt's historical treasures, Austria's picturesque landscapes, and Vietnam's vibrant urban jungle. A self-published author, Conway achieved a remarkable feat with her book, soaring to #1 bestseller status on Amazon in the competitive Business & Money and Self-Help categories. Beyond her literary accomplishments, Conway walked the transformative Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile pilgrimage in Spain, and briefly contributed to a float plane operation in Alaska. Her diverse experiences transcend conventional market research, offering invaluable insights into brand management and marketing strategy. Conway emphasizes the art of storytelling and authentic connections, navigating the delicate balance between ego and authenticity. Unafraid to challenge norms since her early school days, Conway's unconventional approach underscores her effectiveness in marketing and brand management. About Sealevel Agency: Sealevel Agency® specializes in brand management, design, and marketing strategy, anchored in the belief that, at its core, business is a human endeavor. The agency's approach centers on storytelling, considering every business as a narrative shaped by human interactions. Sealevel Agency builds brands that exude trustworthiness, kindness, transparency, and value through consistent and authentic storytelling. Their philosophy views brand management as the art of cultivating trust and captivation. Beyond narrative, Sealevel Agency offers a suite of services, including design, marketing, and copywriting, to develop a comprehensive and compelling brand personality. For businesses seeking immediate assistance, the agency provides Sealevel Strategy Mapping Sessions, a 90-minute deep dive to align strategies with goals and furnish clients with a personalized 90-day Action Plan—a strategic playbook to guide and elevate their brand. Tweetable Moments: 03:22 - "Yes, you do have compliance and all of those things, but you can also tell stories and humanize your brand, humanize your industry." 10:32', "It's a lot harder to sell to a group of people that you are not personally a part of." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Sealevel Agency® website at https://sealevelagency.com/ Check out Sealevel Agency® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sealevelagency/ Check out Allison Conway on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisoneconway/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all t

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & Co-Founder of Clickx, Solomon Thimothy. Solomon, who recently launched his book "0 to 10k Scale Playbook," shared some invaluable insights on lead generation strategies and the importance of inbound marketing. Solomon emphasized the importance of a hybrid approach to lead generation. He pointed out that relying solely on outbound strategies like cold prospecting and email outreach can be challenging, as only a small percentage of businesses actively seek these services. Instead, he suggested focusing on inbound strategies that create a system running 24/7 without the need for constant prospecting. This can be achieved through master classes, webinars, free training, or even offering a free version of their platform. Solomon also touched on the concept of perfectionism that many entrepreneurs grapple with. He shared that his book aims to help individuals looking to start their agency business transition from their current jobs. He emphasized that agency businesses do not require an office location or certifications, making them accessible to anyone. The book focuses on affordability and provides a roadmap to creating a six-figure income right from the start. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Clickx and its role in helping marketing agencies scale their businesses Discussion on lead generation strategies and the importance of inbound marketing Mention of Solomon Thimothy's book, "0 to 10k Scale Playbook," aimed at helping agencies scale to $10,000 a month and beyond Importance of a hybrid approach in lead generation, combining outbound and inbound strategies Focus on inbound strategies that create a system or engine for consistent lead generation Debate on starting with a tripwire or making it easy for prospects to spend time with the agency Discussion on perfectionism and the need to launch products without delay Accessibility of agency businesses, not requiring an office location or certifications Tips on improving webinars, whether to focus on selling or booking calls Importance of compelling content and clear goals in webinars, whether to sell or book calls About Solomon Thimothy: Solomon Thimothy is a seasoned consultant with over a decade of experience dedicated to assisting businesses to thrive within hyper-competitive landscapes. Serving as the CEO and Co-Founder of Clickx, Thimothy collaborates with both emerging and established agency owners, fostering the development of scalable business models. Clickx's comprehensive platform equips agency owners with the essential tools and resources required to cultivate profitable digital marketing agencies, whether aiming for a $10k milestone or surpassing $50k MRR. As the CEO of OneIMS, Thimothy actively seeks avenues to expand and share his expertise with like-minded businesses. Committed to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises, he provides scalable marketing solutions to enhance online reach and significantly boost return on investment. Thimothy's overarching philosophy revolves around "ALL-IN" success in digital marketing, emphasizing the pivotal role of a firm's dedication to investing time and resources for optimal results. Clients leveraging his expertise and determination to grow can achieve limitless success in the digital landscape. About Clickx: Clickx is a versatile software designed to facilitate your agency's seamless initiation, growth, and scaling. It's tailored for businesses of all sizes and industries, and the platform focuses on essential success metrics: traffic, leads, and customers. Offering adaptability, Clickx provides a White Label option, enabling agencies to leverage case studies, generate client reports 24/7, and utilize the Clickx Academy for team training. The platform ensures a personalized and prioritized support system for Agency Partners, optimizing customer experiences and addressing concerns throughout their journey. With Clickx, agencies gain a comprehensive toolset to monitor crucial metrics, access educational resources, and enhance overall client satisfaction, making it an invaluable asset for those seeking efficiency and success in the competitive business landscape. Tweetable Moments: 17:14 - "I really believe that if you can figure out how to run a business that is the greatest personal development that you could ever have." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Clickx website at https://www.clickx.io/ Check out Clickx on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/clickx/ Check out Clickx on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/clickxio/ Check out Clickx on Twitter at https://twitter.com/clickxio/ Check out Clickx on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/clickxio/ Check out Solomon Thimothy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/solomonthimothy/ Check out Solomon Thimothy on Tw

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Founder of Disctopia, Patrick Hill. Patrick Hill, the visionary behind Disctopia, explained that the platform offers content owners full transparency of their data and the opportunity to monetize it. Disctopia primarily focuses on audio and video content, providing insights into audience engagement. They distinguish between regular plays and highly engaged plays, which they term "true plays." This data allows content owners to charge different rates for different levels of engagement, thereby increasing their revenue potential. When asked about the implementation of Disctopia in school systems, Patrick revealed that they have already signed up a couple of schools for their program. They provide mobile podcast kits for students and teachers to set up podcast studios on campus, typically placed in the library or media center for easy access. Every student gets a Dystopia account to upload their content. Patrick acknowledged that implementing in schools can be challenging due to long billing cycles, but they work with schools off-cycle to make it easier. Key Points from the Episode: Disctopia: a platform for content owners to monetize their data Focus on audio and video content Insights on audience engagement, distinguishing between regular plays and "true plays" Example of client, Jet Magazine, using Disctopia 's engagementmodel Partnership with SEMrush for keyword optimization Implementation of Disctopia in school systems Mobile podcast kits for students and teachers Pricing for independent creators, SMBs, and larger applications Integration with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint About Patrick Hill: Patrick Hill is the visionary Founder and CEO of Disctopia, a pioneering music streaming and podcast hosting platform. Motivated by the unjust treatment of artists in the industry, Patrick established Disctopia to revolutionize the streaming market. His platform pays artists the highest per stream, addressing the financial struggles many creators face today. Under Patrick's leadership, Disctopia has swiftly grown to host over 4 million podcasts, music from 10,000 indie artists, and a library of 20,000 audiobooks. Patrick's expertise spans over 20 years, making him a stalwart in global data solutions and technology design. His extensive experience in API development, integration, and system design ensures Disctopia operates seamlessly, both in user experience and backend efficiency. Furthermore, his role as a Certified Microsoft Infrastructure Developer guarantees Disctopia's presence on the cloud is not just a hosting solution but a robust, scalable, and secure platform. A forward-thinking entrepreneur, Patrick's creative genius and technical acumen blend seamlessly, positioning Disctopia as a trendsetter in the digital content engagement realm. His dedication to empowering artists and reshaping the digital landscape makes him a leader of exceptional influence and impact. About Disctopia: Disctopia is a unique platform tailored exclusively for creative individuals, recognizing the artist within everyone. Regardless of background or expertise, Disctopia embraces the philosophy that everyone possesses artistic capabilities. This innovative platform empowers individuals to express their creativity by offering a space to create, upload, and share their artistic endeavors effortlessly. Unlike conventional streaming services, Disctopia's core mission is to amplify diverse voices and talents, fostering a community where every individual's artistic expression is celebrated and heard. By providing a user-friendly interface and seamless uploading capabilities, Disctopia democratizes the creative process, ensuring that artists of all kinds, from musicians and podcasters to writers and visual artists, can showcase their work to a global audience. Disctopia's inclusive approach redefines the traditional boundaries of artistry, encouraging individuals to explore their creative potential and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. In a world where creativity knows no bounds, Disctopia serves as a dynamic platform, uniting people through their passion for artistic expression and enabling them to share their talents with the world. Tweetable Moments: 15:03 - "Go to where they are. Make it insanely easy for them, and your consumption rate is going to go through the roof." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Disctopia website at https://disctopia.com/ Check out Disctopia on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/disctopia/ Check out Disctopia on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/disctopia/ Check out Disctopia on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Disctopia?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Check out Disctopia on Facebook at http://facebook.com/playdisctopia Check out Patrick Hill on LinkedIn at